Cat behavior chops and changes. One minute they may want all your undivided attention and the next they may be scowling at you from the other side of the room. But however your cat acts, it’s still important to provide them with a happy and loving environment.
They are really loveable creatures that need more care and affection that they let on. Kind of like a teenager!
We’ve highlighted a few pointers for creating a happy environment for your cat, from giving them space to addictive plants…
Give them their own space
A lot of cats, but not all, need their own personal spaces to properly relax in their environment. This is especially true if there are young children that may want to interact with the cat whenever they see it. So giving them a space away from the hustle and bustle of a family household will definitely keep them happy. You could even dig through some left over cardboard boxes from Christmas to give them a small, secure space just for them.
Provide entertainment for your cat
Unlike dogs, cats are often very good at doing their own thing throughout the day, meaning they can be left alone for longer. However, they still love to play and be mischievous, so it’s definitely a good idea to have lots of cat toys at hand to keep them stimulated when you’re home. Despite their aloof nature, cats don’t need expensive toys. By simply running around the house with a ball of string, your cat will activate its ‘big cat’ mode by pretending it’s a lion stalking its prey—this often keeps them entertained for long periods of time!
Provide somewhere for them to scratch
Cats love using their claws to scratch at things, which is perfectly normal behaviour. That said, you probably don’t want them tearing up your brand new couch, so providing them with a scratching post or something similar will allow them to care for their claws without damaging your furniture. It’s also a therapeutic way for them to stay stimulated.
The great outdoors
Whether you have an indoor cat, or one that’s allowed to roam around outdoors, it’s still important to expose them to life outside. If your cat does stay inside, then make sure they have access to a large window or viewing point in your home so they can watch the world go by. They may wish to sit and watch for a few hours, keeping them both happy and relaxed. If you let your cat outside, then ensure your environment is safe for them to do so. You can do this by checking there are no dangerous objects in your garden and by assessing whether your neighborhood is a good fit for an outdoor cat. It would also be beneficial to get a cat flap, so they are able to come and go as they please.
Catnip
This is a plant used to entertain cats. It’s very safe and you can purchase it with toys or treats to use within your home. When cats rub and chomp on catnip, it creates a harmless high that they really love. It’s is often used as a way to keep indoor cats happy and entertained.