You're a feline fanatic, so you already know that indoor cats lead longer and healthier lives. Still, it's crucial to give your whiskered friend a stimulating home life, both for physical and psychological health. But what about when you're away, and there's no one home to shine the [laser pointer or dangle stuffed mice?
Window perches to the rescue! These cozy hangout spots give your cat a front-row seat to the sights, sounds, and smells of nature to keep her busy until you come home. And with these 6 unique DIY perches, your cat will be happy as the Cheshire. Feeling even more ambitious? You can also build a catio!
The Simple Shelf Cheap and easy to make, this classic is most often made from a piece of scrap or shelf wood affixed to the windowsill with L-brackets. But why skimp on style when your Fluffy's tastes are, like, so not minimalist? Repurpose a vintage suitcase, unique dresser drawer, or even your favorite wine crate. Cover with a soft cushion or scratch-pad carpet, and hang toys for hours of swatting play.
Cat-friendly grass bed Watch your kitten's inner lion come out to play when she rolls in this cat-friendly grass bed like a lion on the plains. This perch works best placed in wide-ledged windows, or just below a close-to-the-ground window, since the soil will make the bed too heavy to hang. Make sure to use organic potting soil and cat grass seeds.
Catio Sometimes a cat just needs to get away, and what better way than by slinking off to his very own humans-not-allowed clubhouse? The catio—basically a screened-in porch for kitties—can be a simple box, a long runner, or a roomy enclosure. Regardless of size, this luxury perch lets your furry friend access the outside through his own window in the home, while the screened walls give you peace of mind from outdoor dangers. It's the ultimate compromise for you both, so long as you're okay with not being invited inside.
Stairs Cats haven't changed in centuries: they still expect us to worship them, much like the ancient Egyptians once did. And with these wall stairs, your cat can feel above you even in the literal sense. An extended version of the basic shelf, building stairs for your cat is inexpensive, customizable and simple enough to do in just a few hours. It's perfect for a home with multiple cats—especially those with lots of energy to burn.
Hanging window swing Maybe you don't want to give up the only window of the house that's sunny enough to keep your plants alive. Or maybe you just don't have any ledges roomy enough for your cat to sprawl. But with this hanging basket swing, you can keep your windowsill plants and give kitty the best view of all.
All-in-One A cat-centric perch is perfect for or a home with multiple cats since it's not affixed to the wall. And it's an efficient use of space, too. Use salvaged wood, recycle an old coffee table, or add wheels to a small open bookshelf. Add [food and water bowls and/or a litter box in the cubby holes, add a cushion, and you're done!
Once your cat is happy in her cozy perch, you can still do your part to ensure that her daily view is National-Geographic-worthy. Hang a birdfeeder—or three. Install a birdbath or small backyard pond, and grow native plants to attract a swarm of butterflies. With this much wildlife right at her paws, your cat won't look twice at those stuffed mice again.