A Cone?....Seriously??!?

I got the kitties fixed this past week. I am amazed at how things have changed since I last had cats. For instance, the instructions for caring for Jane, post-op, was to have her wear a cone until her stitches come out. Back when I had kitties (was it really 25 years ago??! sheesh, I feel 'old'!) the vet sent us home with ointment to put on the incision that would make their mouth foam if the kitty licked it, this would teach them from doing that. Now, they must think the ointment as inhumane, for instead, they make the kitty wear a cone for 10 to 14 days. You tell me, which is worse....a little foam but the ability to keep oneself clean and 'normal'? -or- wear a cone and not be able to be and/or keep clean or be able to do anything normally???

Anyway, despite how pathetic and sad it is to see Jane with her 'cone of shame', it's also kind of funny. She walks weird as her head bobs from side to side and she thrusts out her front legs like a supermodel. hee hee.....I have a supermodel kitty!

I'm going to make her an appointment tomorrow so that she can get her stitches out on Friday. At least that is my hope. The next step with these kitties is to introduce them to the out of doors, where they will live the rest of their lives, for the most part. Does anyone have any suggestions on how to do that?? Again, it's been a while since I've introduced a cat to the outside and I don't want them to run away. What a waste it would be to spend all this money and have them run away. So, if you have any tips or advice, I'm open to suggestions!