Keeping Your Home Engaging and Safe for Your Cats

Cats thrive in homes where they can run, play, eat and sleep. These domestic pets can be mischievous, so protecting them from themselves is critical. When your house is engaging and safe, you worry less about them when you’re away. How can you design a home conducive to your cats? Here are six things you need to create a safe and secure living space for felines.

1. Cat Beds

Cats are picky about their resting spots and often rotate where they sleep during the day. Some owners select a bed for their cat, only to see them ignore it for a box or a couch cushion. Regardless, giving your pet more sleeping options is wise to encourage comfort throughout their rest. Find beds tailored for cats to make them feel safe and warm when they rest.

If your cat likes to sit in high places, get a tall cat tree with a bed on top. This tower gives your feline a perch with a resting spot to view their surroundings. Cats with special needs may require a uniquely crafted bed to support their bodies. For example, some pet sofas support cats with arthritic pain with a foam base and a pillow for their heads.

2. Window Perch

Indoor cats don’t get to go outside much. They may slip out as you exit the door, but they stay inside for their safety. However, that doesn’t mean they can’t see what’s happening in the great outdoors. Cats love watching the yard and patrolling the area for birds and squirrels. How can you create a safe viewing area? Set up a window perch to increase their comfort.

Window perches come in numerous shapes and sizes, so find the one your cat enjoys the most. While wildlife viewing is a priority, felines also enjoy basking in the sun to warm their bodies and stretch out. Place a cushioned perch on a window with plenty of natural light. Your cat may sleep more in this wildlife viewing stand than in their designated beds.

3. Stimulating Toys

Cats are natural predators, even if they primarily stay indoors. A 2021 study found domestic felines received 96% of their food indoors, but about 4% came from wild animals. Cats enjoy hunting and chasing after animals, even if they contain fabric and synthetic fur. Provide stimulating toys to appeal to their instincts and encourage playtime.

A simple toy cats appreciate is a motorized mouse. Wind up the gadget and watch it move around the house as your pet chases it. Another engaging plaything is a cat food maze because it requires brainpower. These interactive toys challenge your feline to work hard for their treats. Figuring out the puzzle engages your cat and makes dinnertime a more fun experience.

4. Cat Fence

Some cats live indoors and outdoors, making outside protection necessary to keep them safe. Fences are an excellent option because they confine your cat to a specific area. Be mindful of quality when searching for cat fences because intelligent felines can overcome poorly constructed barriers. The last thing you want is to lose your cat because they breached the fence.

First, consider the materials in your fence. Cats naturally desire to climb and explore the area, so smooth components are necessary to deter them. If your fence contains wood, you invite cats to use their claws to climb your fence. Instead, use cat-proof materials like vinyl to reduce their traction when jumping. Coyote rollers can be a solid option for existing fences to keep cats in and other animals out.

5. Scratching Posts

Cats take their grooming seriously by wielding their paws and claws for deep cleaning. Felines need their nails in tip-top shape for grooming and hunting, meaning your housecat may use couches and chairs as their manicure station. How can you turn their attention and save your furniture? Set up scratching posts around the house to encourage healthier behaviors.

A scratching post is critical for indoor cats because it grooms their nails. Without this structure, your pet’s nails could grow too long and become uncomfortable. Your cat wants places to scratch, so each post provides a healthy outlet for this natural behavior. If your feline scratches furniture, place the scratching post nearby to encourage another spot.

6. Water Fountain

Water is essential for cats because it provides energy and prevents dehydration. Experts say your feline requires 3.5 to 4.5 ounces of water per 5 pounds of body weight. How can you encourage healthy hydration habits throughout the day? Your cat might not like still water because it’s not fresh enough, so provide a water fountain.

Water fountains give cats the sight and sound of running water, thus making hydration easier for them. These gadgets have filters to eliminate contaminants and entice your pet to drink clean water. Most fountains carry large amounts of water and are easy to refill as needed. Check the internal filter regularly to ensure your cat always has clean water.

Creating a Safe and Playful Environment for Your Cats

As a pet owner, you want to give your cats a safe space for playing and resting. These curious creatures love hunting and running as much as they want to cuddle in your lap. Engaging toys, comfortable beds and strategically placed scratching posts go a long way for your cat’s enjoyment.