Inside or Outside Cat?

My cat prefers to be indoors, although he does go out with me sometimes where it is safe to do so. Then he will never wander far from me. It would not be safe for him to go out of our front door, which faces directly onto a busy road.

I believe it is acceptable for a cat to live indoors, provided he or she has some company and is not left alone all the time. I know cats can sleep for many hours while their owners are out, but I think a cat does prefer some companionship, whether it is with a human or another animal.