When can kittens go outside? And new cats (UK)
Updated 22 October 2026 · 3 min read
Kittens can usually start going outside at around 13 to 14 weeks old, at least a week after their first course of vaccinations, once they're neutered and microchipped, and with you beside them at first. A newly adopted adult cat needs two to four weeks indoors first. Here's how long to wait, how to make the first trips safe, and what to sort out before the door opens.
When can kittens go outside?
International Cat Care recommends waiting until at least a week after a kitten's first course of vaccinations, at around 13 to 14 weeks old, and says most kittens are better off supervised outside until they're six months old. Cats Protection says not to let a kitten out until it's neutered, which it advises at four months old or younger. Our new kitten checklist has the full timeline.
When can a new adult cat go outside?
Cats Protection suggests keeping a newly adopted adult cat indoors for three to four weeks, and International Cat Care says two to three. In that time your cat spreads their scent around the house, which helps them find their way home. Some cats need longer: wait until yours is relaxed and confident indoors.
Before the first trip out
- Neutered, and healed from the operation. Cats Protection advises neutering at four months old or younger to avoid unwanted pregnancies, and says not to let a cat out until it's done.
- Up to date with their vaccinations.
- Microchipped, with your details up to date. In England it's the law.
- If you'd like them to wear a collar, a quick-release one with a light tag. International Cat Care suggests a snap-open collar with a tag showing your phone number.
- A safe garden. International Cat Care suggests covering ponds, blocking holes in fences, and moving anything hazardous, including poisonous plants.
The first trips outside
- Pick a dry day and a quiet time.
- Go out just before a meal: Cats Protection and International Cat Care both say a hungry cat is more likely to come back when you call.
- Stay with them, and leave the back door open. Don't worry if they dart into a bush to watch from cover: International Cat Care says that's normal. After 30 to 60 minutes, call them in for their meal, and do the same the next day.
- Call their name and give a favourite treat when they come to you, so coming back means a reward.
- Build up slowly until they come and go confidently.
If they don't come back
If yours hasn't come back when you'd expect, and that's unusual for them, start our lost cat checklist straight away, searching close to home first. A QR code cat tag on their collar means a neighbour who finds them can reach you without a trip to the vet.
Quick answers
How long should I keep a new cat inside?+
Cats Protection usually advises three to four weeks for an adult cat, and International Cat Care two to three. Either way, wait until they're settled and confident indoors.
When can a kitten go outside?+
Not until at least a week after their first course of vaccinations, at around 13 to 14 weeks old, and once they're neutered and microchipped. Stay with them at first.
What's the best time to let a cat out for the first time?+
A dry, quiet day, just before a meal, so they're more likely to come back when you call.
Does my cat need a microchip before going outside?+
In England, cats must be microchipped by 20 weeks old. International Cat Care says a microchip is the ideal way to make sure a cat can be identified before it goes outside, and a snap-open collar with a tag lets a neighbour reach you without a scanner.
Sources (4)
This guide is general information, not legal or veterinary advice. How we write our guides
