From a cat forum suggesting only 'cruel' pet owners keep their cats indoors

My two 12 year old males have always been indoor cats. I live in San Francisco on a very busy, heavy traffic street. My house is back up against a densely wooded area full of raccoons, skunks and other feral cats not to mention the occasional crazy drifter that sleeps in the trees. This is not an area where feral cats live long and I often hear their fighting and losing. It would be far more dangerous to my cats if they were outdoors here. Both cats have gotten out once and in both cases they were terrified and clung largely to the immediate area near the house they knew. They have windows to look out where they see bugs, people and other animals just a few feet away. They get fresh air on a small private deck full of plants(not poisonous) which is cat proofed. they are not devoid of contact with the outside world. The bigger factor is making sure the cats are active, happy and eat right. Sometimes people take their pets for granted-or lives are just busy-and don't give them enough engaged play time and affection. That is the bigger factor -I think- in whether a cat is healthy and happy indoors. Cats are remarkably adaptable but no matter where you keep them, both options have pluses and minuses. I think its a case by case basis as to what is best for your pet and realistic for you.