[Sainters7]

I've had a cat for 10 years now, great pets. My whole life I was always a dog person(and still am), never thought I'd ever got a cat. But then we got one and I'm so used to them now that when I'm around dogs, I actually find them kind of annoying in how much attention/time they demand(which is very unlike a laid back, independent cat).

Also, leaving them at home for the day is completely different from leaving a dog home alone all day. There's actually been alot of times where I've left my house in the morning and came back to discover my cat in the exact same spot(and position) as it was when I left. They're fine.

As for the outside thing, I'm more in the let them go outside mentality. But I guess it depends where you live. I live in a quiet, shady cul-de-sac, so I'm not concerned. Whereas if I lived on a busy street, I'd probably want to leave them in more. But if its a quiet neighbourhood, I just think you need to let them live their lives and have fun. And if something happens, unfortunately it happens. At least they enjoyed themselves. At the very least, put em on a long rope or leash and tie em to something in the backyard for an hour or two, so at least they can explore the yard.

Enjoy the new pet, I'm sure you'll love it!