Most cats in the UK are outdoor-indoor cats (80% + ). Also most cats in the UK are moggies, not pedigrees. Therefore the majority of opinion among cat owners, as opposed to forum members, is that cats go outdoors. Hence what you have read on other forums.

Some rescue centres will not re-home to indoor owners; pedigree breeders will not sell to outdoor-indoor advocates.

As with all arguments/debates there is not a right or wrong answer. What I suggest is that you:

1. Risk assess your environment - busy major road is a definite risk.

2. Decide how you would cope emotionally if your indoor-outdoor cat failed to come back.

Whatever you decide, do this:

1. Chip, neuter and vaccinate - your cat may escape even if indoors only and this is a MUST if you decide indoor-outdoor

2. Flea and de-worm regularly - even if indoor though maybe with bigger gaps between treatments

3. Provide litter tray(s) even if outdoor/indoor

Also think about:

1. Catproofing your garden or providing a run.

2. Ensuring a regular routine when exiting your house to prevent an escape if indoor only.