Creating A Catio

Our feline pals are very, very good at getting us to spoil them. Fluffy figured out how to get us to give her toys and tuna years ago. She’s now moved on to scoring herself catios! These are a safe way for kitties to enjoy some fresh air and sunshine without being exposed to hazards like traffic, weather, and chemicals. Read on as a Brampton, ON vet offers some advice on creating a catio for your feline buddy.

Picking The Spot

Ideally, you would want to use a screened patio or enclosed porch for your kitty’s catio. However, you can also use a spare room, sunroom, or just a bright corner.

Toys/Entertainment

You’ll need to add some playthings for your feline pal. If you have a screened-in area, opt for things that can withstand a little dust. Otherwise, offer your pet a variety. There are some pretty cute modern toys for Fluffy, but classics like catnip mice are still popular, too. If you can, put a birdfeeder up so that your furball can see it. Kitties can spend hours watching local wildlife!

Plants

Adding some pet-safe plants will make the catio area look nice. Cats love to peek out at their humans from behind green leaves! This is a cute way to let your kitty unleash her inner tiger. This will also help with smell! Just be sure to stick with pet-safe ones. The ASPCA has a great list of safe and unsafe plants on their website here. Some good bets are Boston ferns, Spider Plants, and peperonia. Many herbs, such as parsley, rosemary, and thyme, are also safe.

Furniture

You’ll definitely need to add some furniture for Fluffy. Cat towers are a great bet, as they provide kitties with vantage spots, napping places, manicure stations, and jungle gyms. Of course, you can also go with hammock beds, cat walks, pet tents or tunnels. Or, just add some boxes!

Purrpose

Of course, you don’t have to completely give up use of this space. Add some comfy things for yourself as well. You may find that this area becomes a favorite spot for enjoying your morning coffee or just setting in to read a good book … with a kitty on your lap, of course.

Do you have questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Contact us, your Brampton, ON animal clinic, today!