Creating the Perfect Garden for Your Feline Friend
As spring is well on the way and summers approaches, many pet owners are looking for ways to create a safe and stimulating garden environment for their cats, to enjoy the outdoors, whether they are exploring, lounging in the sun, or chasing the occasional butterfly. However, crafting a garden that is both beautiful and safe for cats requires some thoughtful planning.
Here are some tips on how to create the perfect cat-friendly garden that will keep your pet entertained and safe.
1. Secure the Perimeter
First things first: safety. If your cat is an outdoor enthusiast, it’s essential to ensure they don’t wander too far. Cats are natural explorers, and without a secure area, they could find themselves in dangerous situations, such as crossing roads or encountering wildlife. Consider installing a cat-proof fence or building a “catio” (a cat patio) that encloses a section of your garden. These enclosures provide the best of both worlds—freedom for your cat to enjoy the outdoors while keeping them safe from the dangers of the wider world. A catio can be as simple as a balcony enclosure or as elaborate as a full-on jungle gym with multiple levels for climbing and lounging.
Another way is to train your cat to respond to his/her name vocally and come back each time you call him/her (it is advisable to start the training at a early age).
2. Plant Cat-Safe Greens
When selecting plants for your garden, it’s crucial to choose non-toxic varieties, as many common garden plants can be harmful to cats if ingested. Here’s a list of cat-safe plants you can add to your garden specifically for your cat’s enjoyment:
Catnip (Nepeta cataria): A must-have for any feline garden! This herb is a favorite among cats, with its intoxicating scent that drives many cats wild. Just be mindful not to overdo it—too much catnip can cause mild gastrointestinal upset.
Cat grass (Dactylis glomerata): This is another favorite, perfect for indoor cats who don’t have access to natural grass. Cats love to nibble on grass, which can help with digestion and even prevent hairballs.
Cat mint (Nepeta mussinii and other species): A low-growing, spreading plant with aromatic silvery-green foliage and lavender-blue flowers. It is well-suited to dry, sunny spots and is relatively low-maintenance.
Cat mint (Nepeta x faassenii): A hybrid of Nepeta mussinii and Nepeta nepetella, forming a mound of silvery-grey foliage with long stems bearing lavender-blue flowers. It can be quite fragrant.
On the flip side, some plants can be toxic to cats, including lilies, azaleas, and daffodils. Be sure to avoid planting anything that could be harmful to your pet.
You can download a small list of cats friendly plants here.
3. Provide Lots of Stimulating Spaces
Cat sleeping amongst culinary herbs on veg trug
Cats are natural hunters and climbers, so incorporating vertical spaces in your garden is a great way to keep your cat entertained. Consider adding cat-friendly trees, shrubs, or specially-designed cat furniture like climbing posts or shelves to encourage exploration and play.
Hanging baskets, trellises, and small trees can be used to create hiding spots or perches for your cat to survey the garden from a higher vantage point. If you’re feeling creative, a few strategically placed outdoor cat tunnels can give your feline friend a new space to explore, too.
4. Create a Cozy Spot for Lounging
Every cat needs a place to nap in peace, and your garden should have at least one cozy spot for this. A sunny patch with a soft blanket or a cat hammock can be the perfect retreat. Cats love to lounge in the sun, so create a shaded spot with plenty of comfy seating options to offer them respite from the heat when needed.
A raised garden bed with soft blankets or cushions is another great idea. Cats love the feeling of being elevated, and you can incorporate a variety of cat-safe plants around the area for them to sniff and explore.
5. Incorporate Interactive Features
Interactive features like water fountains or bird feeders can be a great way to keep your cat entertained while providing a natural environment for them to explore. Birds and small wildlife in your garden can provide endless entertainment for cats, who will enjoy watching and perhaps even trying to catch a glimpse of their feathered or furry neighbors.
However, if you decide to put up a bird feeder, make sure the placement is high enough to prevent your cat from using it as a launching pad! Some cats can be surprisingly agile, and you don’t want them to scare away your garden’s local wildlife.
A plain bowl of water can be a refreshing treat for your cat.
You can play seek treats in the garden with your cats, where you through some treats on the grass and they search for them. You can bring their favourite toys outside.
6. Ensure a Clean and Pest-Free Space
Cats, like humans, enjoy a space that’s clean and free from pests. While your garden should be a safe place for your pet, it’s also essential to keep it free of dangerous insects or rodents that could harm them. Avoid using toxic pesticides, as these can poison your cat if they ingest or come into contact with them. Instead, consider using natural remedies or eco-friendly pest control methods like essential oils or introducing natural predators like ladybugs to keep harmful insects at bay.
7. Supervised Outdoor Time
While creating a cat-friendly garden is a great way to provide outdoor enrichment, it’s always important to supervise your cat when they’re outside. Cats can get into trouble quickly, especially if they’re not used to being outdoors. If you don’t have a fully enclosed garden, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your feline friend or take them outside on a leash and harness to prevent any potential mishaps.
Final Thoughts
Creating a garden that caters to your cat’s natural instincts while keeping them safe is a rewarding endeavor. With careful planning and a few thoughtful additions, your garden can become a paradise for your feline friend—an outdoor sanctuary that’s both fun and secure. By choosing cat-safe plants, providing climbing opportunities, and ensuring proper boundaries, you can give your cat the outdoor experience they crave while ensuring they stay happy and healthy whilst yourself are enjoying the garden too.