Enriching your cats life

I recently spoke to Protectapet’s, Philip Shaw about options for your cat if you’d like them to have access to the outside without leaving the home further afield. You can listen to the podcast here.

If outdoor access isn’t possible for your cat,  I’ve added a list of ways you can help enhance their indoor life. 

Play

Play is powerful!

A really popular toy I have seen is a really long piece of string with a hairband on the end that a cat can catch! Da bird toy is also popular however I would always make sure this is put away as it’s a long piece of string. Also many cats get very enthusiastic about this toy and can flip and jump really high to catch it so being mindful of their joints and doing it somewhere there is a soft landing is what I recommend. Finish play off with food from their daily allowance of food to reduce frustration.

Rotate their toys so they don’t get bored.

Many cats like Silvervine and valarian toys.

Puzzle feeders

Puzzle feeders can help mimic hunting instincts as your cat works to get their food out. Listen to our podcast which has tips on introducing puzzle feeders here. This is a good website too.

High Perches

 Cat trees often have hidey holes for your cat to walk in and out of… if you have more than one cat have one with different exit points so that your cat move away from your other cat if another one comes in.

Cats feel safer up high so adding these options can enhance climbing (exercise) and help them feel more secure.

Fresh Air

I have seen companies sell window protection screens which means you can open the window but your cat cannot get out. Obviously ensuring that this is a reputable company and installed correctly is imperative.

Indoor grass

There is grass you can grow to allow your cat to munch on to bring the outside in.

Looking outside

Having perches located by windows means your cat  can gaze outside if they’d like to (be sure to have litter trays and food and water bowls away though – being stared at can feel intimidating.

Scratching posts

A corrugated cardboard scratching post is often really popular with cats – make sure it is long enough for them to stretch out and exercise their claws.

Training fun tricks

Training isn’t just for dogs! You can teach your clever cats to high five, agility and more! Would you like a guide to teaching high 5? Email me and I’ll ping it over.

If you’d like more ideas you could consider booking a ‘catification of your home’ session.