In response to Kirk Beeler’s criticism of Sara Van Fleet’s letter about the lifespan of indoor cats vs. indoor/outdoor cats, one only need do a quick Internet search to see that virtually every site about this inquiry — from veterinarians to cat fancier groups — agree that indoor cats do in fact live longer (overall) than outdoor or indoor/outdoor cats.

It is common sense that an indoor cat that is exposed to fewer dangers such as poisons, predators, diseases and traffic would live longer. And the toll on wildlife of all kinds is well-documented as well.

I will add that a dog that is a true member of the family and that is not chained, abandoned by itself in a backyard or allowed to roam free will live a longer, happier and healthier life, too. It is all common sense.

— Michelle Harvey