If the family cat has become bored and begun to display negative or destructive behaviors, or if the cats are taking over their owner’s furniture and bedding, providing a cat tower, platform, condo or combination of these things can help the cats redirect their attention elsewhere. Learning the different types of furniture available or even learning to build cat furniture can help cat owners provide a great environment for their pets.
Cat Tree Furniture
One of the most common types of cat furniture is the cat tree or cat tower. Ranging in size from just a couple of feet off the ground to over six feet in height, the cat tree is often made up of various towers of wood, some covered in carpet or sisal, along with one or more platforms or rooms for the cat to sit on or hide in. Cat trees are movable, and nonpermanent, making them ideal for pets that get bored easily; by repositioning the cat tree in a new spot, it gives the cat a new view and more stimulation.
Cat Scratching Posts
Cat scratching posts can either be stand alone items, or incorporated into cat trees, or other furniture. Normally covered in either rug or sisal, they provide exercise and muscle development for the cats, as well as help protect nearby furniture from cats looking to sharpen their nails.
Place scratching posts near door ways, if the cats get excited by their family’s homecoming, or near furniture or rugs that require protection. If a cat has determined that they prefer the feel of another type of fabric for scratching, try covering a scratching post in that material and placing it in easy reach of the cat.
Building Cat Habitats
For cat owners with enough space, and the inclination, try building a series of ramps of platforms either outdoors or in the home. Create steps and ramps leading up to platforms to perch on, or try running boards around the room a foot down from the ceiling to allow the cat to survey the space from above while navigating the room. Boxes with holes cut into the sides for easy access can be placed at intervals to give the cats a place to hide and feel secure.
Hang toys and ropes from different levels to provide further stimulation. Or try placing cat beds inside boxes or on top of platforms to help guarantee their use.
Outdoor cat furniture can be created from tall posts with boards nailed in a spiral around the circumference to create a set of stairs leading to the top. Make a platform at the top, or connect two posts with a long plank between them for more activity.
Cats that are given the chance to explore, climb and exercise can lead longer, happier, healthier lives. Cats that are kept indoors are in particular need of additional stimulation and areas to climb and play. Creating these areas for cats to use can help distract the cats from negative behaviors, help save carpets, couches and home fabrics from claws and wear and provide hours of entertainment for both the cats and their owners.
 |
 |
