Cats are wonderful companions that bring joy to millions of homes worldwide. As a cat owner, we know your feline friend’s happiness and well-being are top priorities.
Fortunately, creating a cat-friendly home doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. The cat litter experts at Boxiecat have put together a comprehensive guide to help you transform your living space into a cat paradise.
1) Install cat shelves for vertical exploration
Cats love to climb and perch high. Install cat shelves on your walls to give your kitty the perfect playground.
You can create DIY cat shelves using simple materials like wooden boards and brackets. Make sure to secure them properly to support your cat’s weight.
Space the shelves at different heights to encourage jumping and exploration. Add carpet or grip tape to provide traction for your cat’s paws.
You can create a cat wall playground with multiple levels, boxes, and even bridges for a more elaborate setup. This gives your cat plenty of options for climbing and lounging.
Remember to place the shelves strategically near windows or in areas where your cat likes to spend time. This will make the vertical space even more appealing to your furry companion.
2) Purchase a cozy cat tree
A cat tree is an excellent addition to make your home more inviting for your feline friend. These structures provide a perfect spot for your cat to climb, scratch, and relax.
When choosing a cat tree, consider your cat’s size and activity level. Look for sturdy construction and scratch-friendly materials to ensure durability and comfort.
Opt for a tree with multiple levels and platforms. This will give your cat various perching options and satisfy its natural instinct to climb and observe its surroundings from different heights.
Many cat trees come with built-in scratching posts, which can help protect your furniture. Some even feature cozy hideaways or hammock-style beds for your kitty to snuggle up in.
If you’re concerned about aesthetics, don’t worry. Plenty of modern, stylish cat trees can complement your home decor while still providing your cat with a fun play space.
3) Use scratch-resistant fabrics
Choosing the right furniture fabrics can make a big difference in creating a cat-friendly home. Scratch-resistant materials help protect furnishings while keeping your friends happy.
Consider microfiber couches, which are soft and unappealing to cats for scratching. This material is also easy to clean and resistant to stains.
Leather and faux leather are excellent options too. Their smooth surface discourages scratching and makes it simple to wipe away pet hair.
For a stylish look, try velvet furniture. Its tight weave resists snags from claws, and many cats find it less appealing for scratching.
You can enjoy beautiful furniture by choosing cat-friendly fabrics without worrying about damage from your furry companions.
4) Add a window perch for sunbathing
Cats love to bask in the sun, and a window perch provides the perfect spot for them to do so. Installing a cozy perch near a sunny window can give them the sunbathing time they need!
DIY cat window perches are a great option if you’re handy. You can create a custom-fit perch for your cat’s favorite window using simple materials like wood, brackets, and a soft cushion.
Consider a perch that attaches with suction cups for a quick and easy solution. These require no drilling or permanent installation, making them ideal for renters or those who prefer a less permanent option.
When choosing a spot for the perch, look for a window with a good view of the outdoors. Birds, squirrels, and passing cars will provide endless entertainment for your feline friend.
Make sure the perch is sturdy and can support your cat’s weight. Add a cozy blanket or cushion to make it extra inviting. Your cat will appreciate a dedicated space to watch the world go by and soak up the warm sunshine.
5) Create a safe outdoor enclosure
Want to give your cat a taste of the great outdoors without compromising their safety? Consider building a catio! These outdoor cat enclosures provide a perfect blend of fresh air and security for your kitty.
You can start small with a window box catio that allows your cat to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature from the comfort of your home. It’s a simple yet effective way to enrich your cat’s environment.
For more adventurous cats, you might want to construct a larger enclosure in your yard. Use sturdy materials like wood and wire mesh to create a safe space. Don’t forget to include perches and shelves for your cat to climb and lounge on.
Secure all openings and regularly inspect for weak spots to ensure the enclosure is escape-proof. To entertain your feline, add cat-friendly plants, toys, and scratching posts.
Remember to provide shade and shelter within the catio to protect your cat from the elements. Fresh water should always be available, especially on warm days.
6) Provide a variety of cat toys
Cats love to play, and giving them different toys keeps them entertained and stimulated. You can easily create DIY cat toys at home using everyday items.
Try making a puzzle feeder by cutting small holes in an empty plastic bottle and filling it with dry food. Your cat will enjoy batting it around to release the treats.
For shy cats, consider quiet toys like soft balls or fabric mice. You can also create a crinkle pom pom toy for a fun, interactive playtime.
Even simple household items can do the trick. A cardboard box or paper bag can provide hours of entertainment.
Rotate your cat’s toys regularly to keep things interesting. This prevents boredom and encourages active play.
7) Set up a dedicated scratching post
Cats love to scratch, and providing a dedicated post can save your furniture from their sharp claws. DIY cat scratching posts are easy to make and can be customized to fit your home’s decor.
Choose a sturdy base and wrap it with sisal rope or carpet. Many cats prefer the texture of sisal, as it resembles tree bark. Make sure the post is tall enough for your cat to stretch fully while scratching.
Place the scratching post where your cat spends most of its time- near their favorite napping spot or by a window. You can attract your cat to use the post by sprinkling some catnip or playing with them around it.
Consider having multiple scratching posts throughout your home. This will give your cat options and help prevent them from scratching furniture. Remember to praise your cat when it uses the post to reinforce the behavior.
If you’re feeling creative, try making a stylish DIY scratching post that complements your home’s style. A well-designed post can be both functional for your cat and aesthetically pleasing.
8) Install cat doors to allow free roaming
Giving your cat the freedom to move between rooms can give it a larger living space to roam around in. Cat doors work perfectly for this. They allow your cat to explore freely (without you having to constantly open doors).
If you’re worried about damaging your doors, damage-free options are available. One simple solution is a door strap that keeps the door slightly ajar, wide enough for your cat but not for larger pets or children.
For those comfortable with DIY projects, you can create a custom cat door that fits seamlessly into your home’s decor. This allows you to tailor the door to your cat’s size and aesthetic preferences.
If you’re renting or prefer not to modify your doors, consider a window cat door. These can be installed in windows, giving your cat easy access to outdoor spaces if desired.
9) Utilize non-toxic plants for safe chewing
Cats love to nibble on greenery, but many common houseplants can be toxic. You can make your home more feline-friendly by choosing non-toxic plants that are safe for cats.
Consider adding some cat-safe African violets to your home. These pretty plants produce lovely flowers and have fuzzy leaves that cats love.
Chinese money plants are another great option. They’re easy to care for and safe for your curious kitty to investigate.
If you’re looking for a touch of the tropics, try an areca palm. These non-toxic plants can add a lush, green feel to your space.
For a low-maintenance option, consider haworthia. This small succulent, also known as zebra cactus, is safe for cats and adds a unique touch to your decor.
10) Provide multiple litter box options
Cats appreciate choices, especially when it comes to their bathroom needs. For multi-cat households, you should have more than one litter box available. A good rule of thumb is to have one box per cat, plus an extra. This ensures each one has a clean, accessible spot to do their business.
Consider Boxiecat litter for a convenient, subscription-based option that keeps your litter supply fresh and consistent. The right type of litter can make a big difference in your cats’ comfort and your cleaning routine.
Experiment with different litter types to find what you and your cat prefer. Some might enjoy crystal litter for its odor control, while you may prefer clumping litter because it’s easier to clean.
Also, cats like privacy, so tucking boxes in quiet corners or behind furniture can make them feel more secure.
Transforming Your Home into a Cat Paradise
Making your home more cat-friendly is a simple and rewarding process. By providing your feline companion with vertical spaces, cozy hiding spots, interactive toys, and other fun things, you can create a comfortable and stimulating environment that caters to their natural instincts and needs.
Implementing these easy tips from Boxiecat will make your cat happier and healthier and strengthen the bond between you and your beloved pet. So, go ahead and start transforming your living space into a cat paradise today – your furry friend will thank you for it!
