Making Your Home Cat-Friendly
Briar is a beautiful young cat who needs a family! She is gentle, loving, and sweet. She loves other cats and would be happy to go home with one of her siblings.
So, you’re bringing home your new feline friend soon, and you want to make your space as safe, comfortable, and welcoming as possible. Welcome to the wonderful world of cat ownership! Many people think cats are a low-maintenance alternative to dogs simply because they don’t need daily walks. The truth? There’s more to caring for cats than a litter box and food bowls! Here are some tips to help you create a cat-friendly home.
Cats are natural climbers who love to explore from up high. Vertical spaces provide mental and physical enrichment, satisfy their instincts, and give them a safe place to retreat from other pets, curious children, or household commotion. Cat trees, wall-mounted shelves, window perches, and sturdy furniture all provide great climbing opportunities. Always ensure elevated spaces are stable and easy for your cat to access.
Cats appreciate quiet places to relax, nap, and feel secure. Provide cozy hiding spots, comfortable beds, or a quiet corner where your cat can retreat whenever they need some alone time. Especially during the first few days at home, let your cat explore at their own pace. Location matters for everyday essentials, too! Place food and water bowls away from busy areas, and keep litter boxes in quiet, accessible locations where your cat can do their business undisturbed. Keep food and water separate from litter boxes whenever possible.
Get ready for your house to become your cat’s personal jungle gym– and yes, that may include your furniture! Scratching is a normal feline behavior that helps cats stretch, maintain their claws, and mark their territory. Provide one or two scratching posts or scratchers per cat, offering both vertical and horizontal options when possible. Place them near favorite sleeping spots or furniture your cat likes to scratch. Toys, puzzle feeders, and interactive play sessions also help keep cats mentally stimulated and physically active. You can protect valuable furniture with cat-friendly covers or deterrents, too. Check out our pet column about cat scratching for more tips!
Cats can be surprisingly determined when it comes to exploring forbidden places! Common household hazards include medications, cleaning chemicals, sharp objects, electrical cords, toxic foods, houseplants, and appliances. Keep hazardous materials securely stored in closed cabinets or containers, and put toxic foods such as onions, garlic, and chocolate out of reach. Check your houseplants, too, because many are unsafe for cats, and lilies are especially dangerous. Visit our pet column on toxic plants or consult the ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants database. Secure windows and screens, hide loose cords, and check washers, dryers, and other appliances before use.
As much joy as cats bring to our lives, they can also bring tracked litter, scattered toys, and plenty of fur! Establish a cleaning routine that works for your household, and get familiar with your vacuum, lint roller, and dustpan. Don’t forget the litter box! Scoop once or twice daily to keep it clean and inviting. Replace litter and wash the box with mild soap and water as needed, depending on your litter type and household. If possible, provide one litter box per cat, plus one extra.
Creating a cat-friendly home doesn’t mean giving up your furniture or turning every room into a playground. With a little preparation and patience, you’ll help your new feline family member feel safe, comfortable, and right at home. Thank you for choosing adoption!