Does your cat keep trying to go out? If so, you’re not alone. Many of our feline friends love outdoor kitty activities, like refusing to come when called and leaving dead animals on porches. However, Fluffy is definitely much safer inside, where she is safe from things like cars, weather, and wild and/or stray animals. Want to give your furry buddy the best of both worlds? Make her a catio! A Roanoke, VA vet offers a few tips on this below.
A Purrfect Place
A screened porch or patio is a great option for a catio. You can also use a sunroom, spare room, or even just a bright corner. The main thing is to give Fluffy a spot of her own, where she can enjoy a taste of nature while still staying safe.
Adding Plants
Kitties love having fresh plants to sniff at, nibble on, and ambush their owners from. Just be sure to stick with non-toxic ones. Some good examples would be Boston ferns, Spider plants, Snake plants, African violets, Areca palms, Ponytail palms, many orchids, and Calathea plants. Catnip, of course, is a must. You can find more safe plants listed at the ASPCA website here.
Purrniture
A catio is a great spot for a cat tower. These are actually very beneficial for cats, as they provide napping spots, lookout spots, and peticure stations. Fluffy will also appreciate some comfy beds, a pet tent, or a kitty tunnel. If you really want to spoil your furball, make her a catwalk.
Room With A View
Birdwatching is a hugely popular kitty pastime. If possible, put a birdfeeder up in the yard, where Fluffy can see it. Your furry buddy may spend hours just sunbathing and spying on local wildlife! (Note: if you pay attention, you may notice her making an odd clicking sound when she’s watching birds.)
Pawsitive Option
If you have a yard, you also have an option to make your kitty a little enclosure. This will allow her to experience the smells and feelings of being outdoors, while keeping her safe. You can buy these, but if you’re handy with tools, you can also make your own. Opt for one that uses a window for access, so you don’t need to make any structural changes to your house.
As your local Roanoke, VA animal clinic, we’re here to help! Contact us anytime.
