I think they’re more ethical than the other option – allowing invasive predators to be consistently exposed to a myriad of dangers that shorten their life expectancy in brutal ways while they kill native wildlife for the funzies.
We have the skills and the knowledge to provide a completely stimulating, positive welfare environment for indoor cats with a little dedication. They don’t feel ‘deprived’ if we actually put in the effort. Cats raised indoors have no problems with it. There are some cats who won’t transition well to not being allowed to go outside anymore, but that can be alleviated through screened porches, cat windows, or leash training – again, they just require human effort.
I hate how when someone talks about recovery/helpful coping tips the response is largely “lol this is so neurotypical” like honestly not wanting to stay ill and suffering as long as possible isn’t “neurotypical”. There’s a difference between “u don’t have an illness just do yoga :)” and “you do have an illness, here are some ways to alleviate the symptoms a bit, and improve your mood”
PiraticOctopus 