Installing a freestanding outdoor cat enclosure in the backyard for a pet cat gives many owners peace of mind knowing their cat will be nice and safe while they are away from the family home for short periods of time. After all they have provided kitty with a bowl of fresh water, a plate of fresh cat food and somewhere safe away from the traffic, wandering dogs and other dangers lurking outside.
Although many older cats are content to curl up into a ball and quietly rest, a young cat of kitten age can be very playful and inquisitive much like pre-school children. If you have a small kitten it will most likely need to be kept occupied, alert and interested in its surroundings.
Some devoted cat owners spare no expense and fit luxurious enclosures with mood lighting, piped music, fountains and rockeries for their felines. However, if you have recently installed or intend building an outdoor cat enclosure, you can use your imagination and creativity well within your budget so the interior can resemble an outside paradise for your fluffy felines.
Generally, apart from being provided with food and water, most cats when left alone in an outdoor cat enclosure appear content and happy with one or two basic comforts and playthings to keep them occupied and entertained. For example, most felines love to climb and feel more secure when they have a high roost where they can look over their environment.
This can be solved by fitting one or two solid cedar basking shelves above the floor allowing your cat to climb up and sit in the shade or bask in the sun. Another excellent addition to any enclosure is a cat tree that can be used to climb and also as a scratching post, although it is advisable to tightly twirl some thick rope around the base. This will give your cat something to scratch while keeping your pet’s claws in good condition.
Also, if there is plenty of room place an old chair inside with kitty’s favorite cushion. Other simple options are to throw in a couple of plastic balls and hang a ball of wool inside for kitty to play with.