Creating a Backyard Haven for Your Outdoor Cat's Enjoyment
Table of Contents
·
Safe Outdoor Shelters
·
Climbing Structures and
Lookout Perches
·
Cat Friendly Plantings
·
Hiding Spots and Obstacle
Pathways
·
Outdoor Water Fountain
·
Securing the Perimeter
Fence
·
Frequently Asked
Questions
Safe Outdoor Shelters
Provide warm, dry shelters for your cat to relax in comfort:
·
Install an insulated cat
house or Igloo style shelter
·
Build a shelter box out
of insulation board and waterproof canvas
·
Place shelters in shaded
spots, protected from wind
·
Use straw or fleece
blankets inside for warmth
Give your cat options by having multiple shelters set up around
your yard.
Climbing Structures and
Lookout Perches
Add vertical elements suited for your cat's climbing skills:
·
Cat trees with platforms
and perches
·
Shelves mounted up high
on fences or walls
·
Window boxes or ledges
outside windows
·
Tree branches properly
secured at various heights
These vantage points satisfy your cat's instincts to climb and
survey their territory from above.
Cat Friendly Plantings
Incorporate plants that are safe and attractive to cats:
·
Cat grass and catnip
·
Spider plants
·
Valerian
·
Lemon balm
·
Peppermint
Check toxicity before planting anything new. Avoid thorny plants
that could injure your cat.
Hiding Spots and Obstacle
Pathways
Create fun spaces for your cat to explore and traverse:
·
Cut holes in cardboard
boxes and hide treats inside
·
Arrange cinder blocks and
tree stumps to leap across
·
Dig shallow trenches for
your cat to patrole and poke their head inside
Rotating toys and puzzles keeps your cat engaged with their
surroundings.
Outdoor Water Fountain
Keep your cat hydrated and intrigued with a pet-safe fountain:
·
Use ceramic or stainless
steel construction
·
Include charcoal filters
if not on municipal water
·
Fountains with flowing
water entice drinking
·
Place in a shaded area
and change water frequently
Circulating fountains prevent mosquito breeding grounds.
Securing the Perimeter
Fence
Contain your outdoor cat safely within your yard:
·
Use six foot wood or
vinyl privacy fencing
·
Bury fencing six inches
into the ground
·
Check for and repair any
gaps or holes
·
Install smooth caps and
collars on fence posts
Preventing escape protects your cat from cars, predators, and
becoming lost.
Frequently Asked
Questions
Are
screened outdoor enclosures safe for cats?
Yes, "catio" style enclosures allow safe outdoor
access. Use strong steel framing and heavy duty mesh.
What
plants deter cats from yards?
Rosemary, lavender, lemongrass and citrus plants help repel
cats. Avoid toxic plants like lilies.
How can
I keep neighborhood cats out of my yard?
Deterrents like motion-activated sprinklers, scent repellents
and bamboo sticks can discourage trespassing cats.
Should
outdoor cats have a litter box?
Providing one or more outdoor litter boxes gives your cat a
place to relieve themselves in bad weather.
Conclusion
Customizing your backyard with enrichment tools and security
measures creates an engaging sanctuary for your outdoor cat. Offer cozy
shelters, climbing platforms, plantings and toys to bring out their curiosity
and contentment. Take steps to safely contain your cat for their health and
wellbeing.
