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PETS | Fabulous felines
- A SAFE PLACE
Next on the list of essential requirements for
your cat is shelter. Every cat, regardless of their
age, gender or breed, needs a safe and quiet
place they can retreat to whenever they want.
“Cats like to watch action from a safe height,
so shelves, window sills etc are important. A
box can also be all a cat needs to feel safe and
secure — never throw away a cardboard box
when you have a cat,” Dr Jo says.
Whenever the world gets a little
overwhelming or your furry friend just needs
a little bit of quiet time, your cat should know
that they can escape to their own private
sanctuary for a break.
In addition, Dr Jo points out that while cats
do not need to go outdoors, if kept entirely
indoors they may benefi t from having access
to cat grasses to nibble on. However, many cats
will enjoy safe access to the outdoors and there
are now a range of cat enclosures which off er
this is still a concern for their welfare. Mental
stimulation prevents stress,” she says.
“And give a cat some fun. We don’t allow cats
to fulfi l their natural behaviour drives (hunting),
so giving them alternative, appropriate
stimulation is important.”
Dr Gloria points out that cats are naturally
inquisitive, especially as kittens, and it is
important for them to learn about the world
they live in. “For indoor cats the provision of
climbing structures (eg cat scratching posts
with beds etc and/or shelves, or steps attached
to the wall) provides some stimulation from
‘exploration’. Cardboard boxes are a cheap and
eff ective entertainment, changing them over
when the cat has lost interest,” she says.
Meanwhile, outdoor cats can explore up
trees and along fences. “This can lead to
trouble, so having an enclosed large cat run is
ideal for those cats that may fight with others,”
she explains.http://www.petsmagazine.com.au
Ensuring your cat feels loved will make her very happy.PLF071_pg030-033_6 Secrets to a Happy Cat.indd 32PLF071_pg030-033_6 Secrets to a Happy Cat.indd 32 8/23/2017 9:57:03 AM8/23/2017 9:57:03 AM