Have you ever wondered how to let your cat play in the garden or the park without getting lost? Cat owners can usually relate to this. The outside world offers our cats exciting things to see, hear, and smell, but it is also a place of danger.
Designing a secure territory for your cat outside the house is quite possible. This realistic approach has the potential to improve your pet's well-being.
In this blog post, we will provide four pieces of advice on making the outdoors safe for your cat. Ready to learn how? Here are four easy steps to create the best outdoor environment for your cat companion.
4 Tips to Make Your Outdoor Area Secure
We know why it is crucial to have a safe space outside for our cats; it is time to get down to details. Below are four valuable tips that will assist you in making your outdoor space more appealing to your cat while ensuring its safety.
1. Install a Cat Enclosure
Do you want your cat to roam free like the other animals? Your answer is a cat enclosure. Imagine it as a playpen for your furry friend, only this one is much more sophisticated.
Whatever you pick, ensure that it is escape-proof. Security should be considered, and one security measure that should be employed is fencing.
If your cat gets outside, the roof will protect it from birds of prey and sudden rain. Add some shelves and platforms to it; you have the best cat climbing playground.
The best part? Your cat gets to roam around the compound and play while you do not have to worry about cars, other animals, or your cat escaping on you.
2. Provide Safe and Stimulating Activities
Let's be honest: when a cat is not entertained, it becomes a menace. Therefore, let's keep those paws and minds busy!
Start with toys—balls, feathers, puzzle feeders—variety. And here's a pro tip: to ensure that the toys are not dull to the child, it is recommended that they be changed frequently. Cats love these playthings, which are like Christmas gifts every few weeks.
Well, now we would like to discuss the climbing game. Cats love to climb because it is natural, so provide them with something to climb on.
Convenience stores, wall-scratching posts, cat trees, ramps, and everything in between – it's possible. Of course, do not overlook the tunnels and the hiding spots. They stimulate the hunting instinct in your cat.
All this play is not childish and does not represent frivolous entertainment. Exercise is essential to keep your cat physically fit and mentally alert and to prevent it from getting into trouble.
3. Ensure Access to Fresh Water and Shade
First up, water. Bowls are alright, but if you want to be the hip and happening cat parent, get them a pet water fountain.
Cats prefer to drink running water, which may help them drink more. Whatever you choose, make sure it remains clean and is filled.
Now, onto the shade. Think cat-sized oases. Coats, hats, parasols, if you don't mind being stared at, even a tree with leaves might suffice. And, of course, a small corner that the cat can crawl into when they have had their dose of the sun.
This setup is not limited to the comfort of the conversation participants. It's a safety thing. It cools the cat and provides water, which is essential when the weather is hot, as it is in the summer.
4. Regularly Check and Maintain the Space
Start with a regular fence check. Look for any weak spots or damage that could lead to a great escape. If you spot any, fix them pronto.
First, there is the basic fence check. Try to find any area that seems vulnerable or has been damaged that can be used to make a great escape. If you come across any, correct them on the double.
It is wise to look for plants that are dangerous to cats and avoid them. Cleanliness is next to godliness, and cleanliness is also safe.
Lastly, consider pest control as a critical segment of your landscaping service. Nobody wants their cat to be in a flea hotel.
There are ways of dealing with those creepy crawlies that will not harm your pets, and their use is recommended. If there are signs of pests, it is recommended that you get rid of them as soon as possible.
It may sound like a job, but believe me, it is worth it. Maintenance also implies a safe and clean environment where your cat can play.
The Great Outdoors That Your Cat Has Been Waiting For
Here is a guide to turning your backyard into a kitty wonderland. It is not rocket science but requires thinking and a few minutes of work. I assure you, though, that it is all well worth it.
Remember, you do not have to do all of these at once if you have to; begin with a small scale. Let's start with a cage and only a couple of accessories.
Most importantly, you are starting to make changes to improve your cat's life. You are letting them experience the outside world without having to fear that they will get lost, injured, or even killed.
So go on, get started on that outdoor cat haven. Your cat companion will surely appreciate this – at least in their cat mannerisms, perhaps with additional purrs or by not shoving your coffee mug off the table the following day. Here's hoping!