There’s no doubt about it, most domestic cats love the luxuries of a loving home–the comfy beds, a reliable dinnertime, and the companionship of their human parents. But this time of year, like us, most kitties also yearn for the freedom and discovery that only the great outdoors can bring. But the outside can also be very dangerous, with other animals, poisons, and getting lost all being huge concerns. It’s these safety issues that keep most owners from letting their feline friends outside, so instead, try to bring some of that outdoor goodness indoors for your cat to safely enjoy. 

Window Perches Will Provide Some Wow! 

Part of what intrigues kitties about the outdoors is all the activity-birds flitting, squirrels bustling, and other critters going about their business. There’s a lot to see! You can help satisfy some of your cat’s craving to ‘see it all’ by getting a window perch. These come in various types and styles, including hammock beds that are secured to a window ledge, perches that suction cup to windows or simple, padded shelves. Whatever you and your kitty choose, a window perch will allow them to safely watch the goings-on outdoors without actually being out there to experience the dangers as well. 

See It All With See-Through Bird Feeders  

If you already enjoy feeding the birds so that you, yourself, can be treated to their eye-catching beauty, consider a see-through bird feeder to let your kitty get more involved as well. See-through feeders attach to the outside of windows, usually by suction cup, and allow kitties to get a fish-eye view of the littler critters as they attend the feast you’ve provided. Being able to see birds up close, but with a safety barrier for both kitty and warbler, will give your cat much-needed mental stimulation and excitement without risking being outdoors. 

Grow It In a Cat Grass Garden 

Another draw that kitties feel to be outside is the plant life, and there’s no greater time than spring to sample some of the new arrivals. Yes, cats like to eat grass, among other greenery. While most yard grasses are safe, there are many plants in your yard and garden that can be toxic to kitties, another great reason to keep your feline friends indoors. You can instead help satisfy those taste buds with some leafy greens with potted plants specifically for kitty. Lemon grass is a good one, as well as cat grass, which can refer to wheat, oat, or barley grasses. Cat nip is of course a good option if you can limit access, and herbs such as rosemary and parsley are also easy to grow and good for kitty nibblers. Always ask your veterinarian before you plant or share any greenery with your cat. 

Experience it With a Cat Porch 

If you have the space and resources, screened cat porches give kitties a safe outdoor retreat. Cat porches can be any size or style, but the idea is the same. They are more open for visibility and fresh air, yet keep your cat safe from other animals. Just make sure these porches are kitty proof, meaning your cat can’t get out and other critters can’t get in, and that they are easily accessible. You can design a cat porch with perches, trees, beds, and any other accoutrement your cat desires. Be sure to provide access to fresh, clean water at all times as well.   

Provide Play Time 

Your kitty won’t miss the outdoors if you’re providing the proper amount of stimulation and playtime inside. You can use this playtime to simulate activities that they would do outside, such as stalking and chasing with motorized toys or toys on a string. Cat trees or a series of shelves of varying heights can also mimic climbing trees, and empty cardboard boxes or paper sacks will allow your kitty to sneak, hide and pounce, just like they might do in the outdoors. 

There’s no doubt that the outdoors provide endless entertainment and stimulation for our cat companions. However, it also presents many dangers that have most cats confined to indoors only. You can still get those benefits for your cat by making some simple changes that will bring the outside in and keep your kitty safe, happy, and interactive with the world around them.