Have you decided to keep Fluffy indoors? If so, that’s great! Our feline pals are both safer and healthier staying safe and sound indoors, where they won’t be exposed to the dangers posed by weather, cars, predators, or other hazards. However, there’s no reason your cat can’t enjoy a taste of nature. Why not make her a catio? In this article from Westside Animal Hospital, a Savannah, GA vet discusses creating a catio.

Choosing Fluffy’s Spot

A screened porch or patio is a great spot for a catio. You can also use a spare room, or even just a bright corner. Just pick a place with a good view, so Fluffy can watch birds and squirrels, and daydream about hunting.

Plants

Set out pet-safe plants for your furball to nibble on and hide behind. Boston ferns, Spider plants, Money tree plants, and Ponytail palms are all good options. You can also set out pots of herbs, such as thyme and rosemary. Of course, no catio would be complete without some of Fluffy’s favorite plant: catnip. Cat grass, or wheat grass, is also very popular with our feline pals. Pick up a spare litterbox, and use it to grow a living mat for your pet. You can find more good options at the ASPCA website.

Pet Furniture

Add some pet furniture to Fluffy’s outdoor area. We all know how much cats like sleeping, so comfy beds are a must. Cat towers are another great choice, as they offer kitties a jungle gym, scratching post, and napping spot all in one. If you want to save money, go the DIY route and make one out of an old stepladder or a metal storage rack. Just add planks to make kitty lounging spots, and then wrap the whole thing in carpet or sisal rope. If you really want to spoil your feline buddy, opt for wall-mounted furniture, or a catwalk.

Toys

Offer Fluffy lots of fun toys to play with. Classic catnip mice are always popular with kitties, but you can also offer your furry friend plastic balls, wand toys, or other playthings. You’ll find some really cute options for kitty toys in stores, like catnip bubbles, robotic mice, or automated laser pointers. Please contact Westside Animal Hospital, your Savannah, GA animal clinic, with any questions or concerns about your cat’s health or care. We’re here to help!