As summer comes to a close the weather will become cooler and it will be time to start taking out the air conditioners, pulling out the blankets, and putting away the summer clothing. Your cat may not want to come inside but it’s important to protect him from the chilly weather. Or you may have somehow become the new caretaker for a stray all summer long. Sometimes cats adopt you. Two of my childhood cats were found on the street and became family pets.
Here’s some tips to making your home just as fun as the streets:
1: Window perches – will allow your little lion to look outside and something to jump up on instead of the counters
2: Scratching posts – allow your cat to mark, sharpen his nails, and something to climb even if it’s not as high or exciting as a tree.
3: Food and Water – your cat may be grateful to not have to hunt around for something to eat or drink. Fresh water and good high quality food will make your cat happy and calm.
4: Cat-friendly plants and toys – catnip and wheat grass can give your cat something to chew on and the toys help with exercise and mental stimulation.
5: Litter box – granted it is not a toy or food, a litter box is important and your cat will take to it fairly easily. Just keep it clean and in a place that’s easily accessible.
Providing alternatives to climbing trees, chasing birds, and digging around in garbage may make your cat happier and more relaxed. Your cat might not want to go out or try to bolt out the door if it seems the “good life” is laying on the couch, training you to feed him, and having a bed to sleep on when you’re not there.
It’s safer for cats to be inside for so many reasons and cold weather is just one of many. It doesn’t take much work to make sure your cat is happy indoors, just a few toys, something to scratch, and a comfy place to sleep which is probably going to be your bed.