Do you have a screened porch or patio? What about a spare room, or even a sunny corner? If the answer to any of these questions is ‘yes,’ then you have a purrfect spot for a catio! This is a great way to give your feline friend a spot where she can enjoy some sunlight and fresh air, without being exposed to dangers such as cars, predators, and weather. Read on for some great tips from a local Tampa, FL vet on creating a catio.
Plants
Plants not only give your home a fresh, clean look, they also help keep your place smelling nice. There are many attractive pet-safe options you can choose from. Areca palms, Ponytail palms, Rubber tree plants, and Money trees are all beautiful larger plants. You can also grow fresh herbs, such as parsley, sage, rosemary, thyme, and lavender. African violets are also safe, as are certain succulents. Many types of orchids are fine, as are Spider plants and Boston ferns. For extra purrs, grow Fluffy a small pot of catnip, or plant some wheat grass in an old litterbox or a storage tote. You’ll find many more suitable options for pet-safe plants online at the ASPCA site here.
Toys
Toys provide kitties with enrichment, entertainment, and stimulation. Set out some fun playthings for your furball. While catnip mice are great, they are usually best kept indoors, as they will get wet and dirty on a screened porch. Plastic balls are a good option. You can also get your furry friend a remote-controlled mouse, an automatic laser pointer, or a mechanical ‘swimming’ fish.
Purrniture
A catio is a great spot for a cat tower. If you have limited funds, you can make your own out of an old stepladder, bookcase, or storage rack. Use smooth boards to widen out the steps or shelves into kitty napping spots, and then cover the whole thing in carpet or sisal rope. Fluffy may also appreciate a catwalk. A comfy window seat is another must. Of course, you’ll want to add a few pieces for yourself as well. This may very well turn out to be your favorite spot for reading, having coffee, and, of course, hanging out with your feline buddy.
Please do not hesitate to contact us, your local Tampa, FL vet clinic, for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs. We’re here to help!
