Is your kitty an indoor-only pet? If so, that’s great! Fluffy is both safer and healthier inside. However, your feline buddy will appreciate having a little taste of the great outdoors. Why not make her a catio? A Michigan City, IN vet offers some suggestions on this below.

Choosing The Spot

A screened in patio is, of course, an absolutely purrfect spot for a catio. However, you can use a spare room, sunroom, or even just a bright corner. Just choose a place that gets enough sun for the plants you want to add or incorporate.

Plants

Speaking of plants, there are lots of gorgeous ones to choose from. If you want some potted trees, look into Rubber trees, Ponytail palms, or Areca palms. For flowers, African violets are a good choice. Many orchids are also safe. Like cooking? Include some fresh herbs, such as pasley, sage, tyme, or dill. You can also add some simple houseplants. Spider plants, Snake plants, Boston ferns, and prayer plants are all good options. Just be sure to stick with pet-safe options. Check the ASPCA site here for more suggestions.

Kitty Furniture

You’ll need to add a few pieces of furniture for your furry little friend to look adorable on. A cat tower is a great option. This will not only give Fluffy a great scratching post, it will also offer her a lounging spot and a lookout point for watching birds and squirrels.

Activities

Our feline friends love to lounge about doing as little as possible, However, Fluffy should have some entertainment options. If your furball’s catio looks out onto a yard, add a birdfeeder where she can see it. This is also a great spot for automated toys, such as mechanical mice. Your kitty may even get to practice her hunting skills on the occasional moth. This may be just as fun for you as it is for her!

Finishing Touches

You don’t have to give all of your space over to Fluffy. Add a comfy chair or patio set for yourself. You may find that enjoying a cup of coffee while your furry pal chases after the dot from a laser pointer is a great way to start or end your day. 

As your Michigan City, IN veterinary clinic, we’re dedicated to offering great care. Please contact us for all of your kitty’s veterinary care needs.