I'm so sorry for I know exactly what you experienced today. Having worked in a small animal clinic for several years I've seen the effects of car vs. cat/dog. It is because of these experience all eight of my cats live inside. It is a tough call to make but my gang seems to like the indoors for no one makes a dash for an open door. Life must be pretty darn good behind my doors. Every owner has to make the call and though I would never allow my gang outside I do understand why some people elect to have outside cats.