THEIR ARE MANY DIFFERENT SPACES IN YOUR HOME THAT CAN BE MADE CAT-FRIENDLY and create a happy and healthy environment for your furry companion. But first, why is it important to create cat-friendly spaces? Cats are territorial animals and need a space to call their own. By creating cat-friendly spaces in your home, you are providing your cat with a sense of security and ownership. This can help reduce stress and anxiety in your cat, leading to a happier and healthier pet. Below are a few benefits.

The Benefits of Cat-Friendly Spaces

       • Reduces stress and anxiety

       • Encourages exercise and play

       • Provides a sense of security and ownership

       • Helps maintain a healthy weight

       • Promotes good behavior

The Living Room

Often the central hub of the home, the living room is a great space to create a cat-friendly environment. Cats love to climb and scratch, so providing them with a designated area to do so is essential. Cat trees and scratching posts not only give your cat a place to play and exercise, but they also help protect your furniture from being scratched. Place the cat tree or scratching post in an area where your cat can easily access it, such as near a window or in a corner of the room. You can also sprinkle some catnip on the post to encourage your cat to use it.

Cozy Nooks and Hiding Spots

Cats love to have their own little hideaways where they can relax and feel safe. Create cozy nooks and hiding spots in your living room by placing a cat bed or blanket in a quiet corner or under a piece of furniture. This will give your cat a place to retreat to when they need some alone time. Interactive toys are a great way to keep your cat entertained and engaged. Toys that mimic prey, such as feather wands or laser pointers, are especially appealing to cats. These toys can also help your cat get the exercise they need to maintain a healthy weight.

The Kitchen

It's important to remember that the kitchen can be a dangerous place for cats, with many potential hazards such as hot stoves and toxic foods. However, many of us keep their feeding station here. A great way to help your cat is to use an elevated feeding station, which not only makes it easier for your cat to eat, but also help promotes good digestion. This is especially important for older cats or cats with joint issues. You can purchase a raised feeding station or create one yourself using a small table or shelf.

To keep your cat safe in the kitchen you can keep toxic foods out of reach, secure cabinets and drawers, and keep hot surfaces and appliances off-limits. You can also install a baby gate to keep your cat out of the kitchen when you're cooking.

The Bedroom

The bedroom is often a favorite spot for cats, as it's a quiet and cozy space. Cats love to sleep in warm and cozy spots, so providing them with a designated bed or perch in your bedroom is a great idea. This will also help keep your cat off your bed, if that's something you prefer. Just like in the kitchen, it's important to cat-proof your bedroom to keep your cat safe. This means securing any cords or wires, keeping toxic plants out of reach, and making sure any small objects are put away.

Cat-Friendly Window Sills

Cats love to look out the window and watch the world go by. Create a cat-friendly window sill by placing a cushion or bed on the windowsill. This will give your cat a comfortable spot to relax and watch the birds outside.

The Bathroom

The bathroom is often the best place to keep your cat's litter box, as it's a private and quiet space (and there is more grace given here for bad smells!). Make sure to keep the litter box away from any cleaning products or other potential hazards. AND we found this product which truly works to take away odors! Here are a few ways to integrate a kitty litter box into your home design, so you can keep it looking nice:

     • Use a custom made litter box that is made of a beautiful material such as wood

    • Paint your litter box to match your homes color palette or to contrast with it in a fun way

    • Hide the box under a cubby area

Cat-Friendly Shelves

If you have shelves in your bathroom, consider making them cat-friendly by placing a cushion or bed on top. This will give your cat a place to perch and watch you get ready in the morning.

The Outdoors

If you have a backyard or outdoor space, it's important to make sure it's safe for your cat to explore. Cat enclosures are a great way to give your cat access to the outdoors while keeping them safe. These enclosures can be attached to your home or freestanding, and can be as simple or elaborate as you'd like.

Cat-Friendly Plants

If your cat will be spending time outdoors, make sure to plant cat-friendly plants in your garden. Some safe options include catnip, cat grass, and catmint. This will give your cat something to nibble on while they explore.

Creating cat-friendly spaces in your home is essential for your cat's well-being. By providing your cat with designated areas to play, sleep, and explore, you are creating a happy and healthy environment for your furry friend. We hope these tips, help you create a cat-friendly home that your feline companion will love!