This post is sponsored by Sleepypod*
At their core, cats are still wild animals, and while we’ve invited them into our homes to share our lives, we can’t expect them to completely give up all their instincts. We have to look at our living space from the cat’s point of view and provide an environment that keeps them safe and stimulated at the same time. This includes creating a safe space your cat can retreat to when she wants quiet time. This is especially important during potentially stressful situations such as home remodeling, inclement weather or any other disruptions to your cat’s routine.
The following tips can help you create the perfect safe haven for your feline friend.
Choose a quiet and secluded area
Most cats, being naturally cautious, prefer a quiet and peaceful environment. It is important to select a room or area in your home that is away from high-traffic areas, loud noises, and other pets and small children. This will allow cats to have a secure space where they can retreat to whenever they feel overwhelmed or stressed. Providing them with a designated area will give them a sense of ownership and security.
Provide comfortable bedding
Most cats love to find cozy spots to relax and sleep. Include a cat bed or a soft blanket in your cat’s safe area. Cater to your cat’s preference in terms of the type of bedding you choose. Some cats prefer beds they can sprawl out in, others prefer covered or tent-like beds.
Include hiding spots
As natural born hunters, cats often feel safer when they have hiding spots available. Provide options such as cardboard boxes, cat tunnels, or even a cat tree with cubbies. These hiding spots will give your cat a sense of security and allow them to observe their surroundings without feeling exposed. Having multiple hiding spots will also give them the freedom to choose the one that suits their mood or preference.
Incorporate vertical space
Cats love to climb. Consider adding cat shelves or a tall cat tree to your cat’s safe space. This will not only provide them with a place to climb and play, it will also give them a better vantage point to observe their environment, which will add to their sense of security. Make sure that shelves or cat trees are stable and secure to prevent any accidents.
Make it stimulating
Cats are curious creatures, and they require mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Add favorite toys, scratching posts, and toys designed for solo play to your cat’s safe space to keep them entertained. This is especially important during remodeling projects, when cats may need to spend extended amounts of time in their safe space.
Maintain a consistent routine
Cats thrive on routine, and having a consistent schedule and predictable environment adds to their sense of safety. Maintain a consistent feeding, play and sleep schedule.
Minimize stressful encounters
If you have other pets or young children, a safe space is crucial for your cat’s well being. Obviously, it’s important to teach children to respect your cat’s boundaries, but the safe space should be off limits for other pets and young children at all times.
The Sleepypod Mobile Pet Bed – a great choice for creating a safe space
The Sleepypod Mobile Pet bed is not just a carrier, it’s also a luxury bed, lined with ultraplush foam. The domed cover provides a secure hiding space, but unzips easily, so you can adapt it to your cat’s sleeping preference even while using it inside your home. Some cats may prefer the top removed, others may like the security of the cover.
This super comfortable cat bed and carrier makes a great addition to any safe space, and since it also looks gorgeous, it won’t be an eyesore you’ll want to hide in a closet. Bonus: it’s a great way to get your cat used to being in a carrier when that carrier also doubles as a favorite sleeping spot!
Do you have a safe space your cats can retreat to? Share with us in a comment how you set it up.
For more information about Sleepypod’s carriers, and to purchase, please visit their website.
FTC Disclosure: This is a sponsored post, which means that I was compensated to feature this content. Regardless of payment received, you will only see products or services featured on this site that I believe are of interest to our readers.
I have a large carrier at the base of the stairs that Tasha will go into at times to be in an eclosed quiet space.
Kiki’s favorite safe/hiding spot is in the closet. Lulu likes to go under the bed. I know we aren’t supposed to let them go under the bed, but I can’t not let her go as it’s where she feels safest when there is a storm. She is terrified of thunder.