can u keep a white cat as an outdoors cat?

Question
Hi .
My question is the above. A friend of mine said you cannot keep a white cat outside or as an outdoors cat as they are highly susceptible to skin cancers etc. Is this true?

Thanks
Jen

Answer
Jennifer,

I have not heard that before, and I do not really buy into that.  The coat, whether it is white or otherwise will protect the cat from the elements.

My druthers are to keep the cat indoors, mostly because bathing and cleaning the mess an outdoor cat can make of its coat is moreso with a white!!!!!  Also, indoor cats tend to live longer (12-15 years) than outdoor cats (3-5 years).

Best regards... Norm.