Lower cholesterol, better cognitive function, lower anxiety — are just some of the benefits of owning a pet. How can we show our furry friends that we appreciate all that they do for us?
It depends on the pet. Different animals have different needs.
Cats are one of the most popular pets around. Over 45 million American households have one.
There are a few things you can do in your shared living space that will make your best friend purr with happiness. Here are five home improvements you should consider if you share your home with a cat.
1. Hide the Litter
Let’s face it — litter ain’t pretty. Neither you nor your cat enjoys having a litter box on display.
Consider hiding your litter box in a specially built cabinet with pet doors. You can even upgrade your box to a self-cleaning model so that you can set it and forget it.
2. Set Up Cat Shelves
Cats love to be high up and observe the household below them. Creating a cat highway in your home is something they’ll love and is easier to put together than you might think.
It can be as simple as setting up a few cat shelves your cat can access. If you’re ready to tackle a bigger project, see if you can put up different kinds of high-up access areas, like carpeted platforms or rope bridges.
3. Outdoor Access
You want your cat to enjoy the outdoors but you also want to keep them safe. You can grant them outdoor access safely with pet doors and a catio.
A catio is like a patio area where your pet can go to observe the outside, enjoy the sun on their fur, and the different exciting scents on the breeze. It doesn’t even have to be that large, it can be a mesh box that you mount to a window.
If you already have a patio, make it easy for a cat to get in and out. Installing a cat door will allow them to move freely and enjoy your yard safely.
4. Napping Areas
Cat owners know their four-legged friends like nothing more than curling up for a good nap. Why not give them a few options?
We talked about putting in a high-up platform on your cat shelves. You can also set up holding cabinets as cat caves where your kitty can go to get away from the busy household and catch some shuteye.
5. Feeding Stations
Your cat deserves better than just some bowls on the floor. Why not set up feeding stations to make it easier for both of you during dinner?
A pet feeding station keeps food from getting on the floor. Plus it gives you quality time during mealtime.
Home Improvements for Your Cat
Your pet is your best friend. Make your home more enjoyable for both of you by trying one or all of these home improvements.
You don’t have to redesign your entire house. Many of these projects are simple and easy to set up.
Want to learn about more awesome upgrades for your home? Check out our other redesign ideas to feel inspired.
