Mary Allen
The warm rays of the sun lure every cat to the balcony door. With these 5 tips, you can create a safe and cozy paradise for your cat outside.
Rely on security
Cats have an excellent sense of balance and don’t fall down as quickly when balancing over the balcony railing.
However, if something out of their reach arouses their interest, such as a butterfly fluttering by, Velvet Paws can easily become cocky. A cat net protects your darling from falling down and prevents little crooks from escaping.
The net should be attached without gaps. In addition, a stable material should be chosen which cannot be bitten by kitties.
Any balcony railings that may be present must also be secured with a net if your kitty’s head can fit through.
Before installation, you should obtain permission from your landlord. This applies above all if you want to drill into the house wall or plan similar interventions in the building fabric.
You can embellish your net with colorful lanterns or non-toxic climbing plants.
Conjure up a green oasis
Other greens can also be an enrichment for you and your cat. Especially herbs like thyme, mint, and sage are popular with velvet paws.
Lavender smells particularly good and with its violet flowers, it also attracts a few insects that will entertain your house cat.
It is important to always ensure that the balcony plants are not poisonous to your cat. (Caution! These plants are poisonous to cats!) You should also avoid using insecticides or chemical fertilizers. On the other hand, mini-meadows made of cat grass, in which your darling can make himself comfortable, are popular.
Ensure the best prospects
Once she has sniffed the scent of freedom, your cat will want to spend a lot of time on balconies. Cats prefer to observe events from elevated positions. The balcony is ideal for that.
Either the parapet can be widened so that your cat has enough space to take a stand here. Cats can also relax very well in hammocks. Scratching posts offer enough space for several cats and at the same time keep them busy outdoors.
It is also important to have a sheltered spot that offers shade in summer and does not get too hot and can serve as a retreat on rainy days.
Think about food
Your house tiger should always have fresh water available on the balcony. If you want, you can also add a bowl of dry food. Nevertheless, you should of course never lock your cat in or out on the balcony! Just leave the door open when you’re home.
Tilted balcony doors are dangerous, as cats can get trapped here and cause serious injuries. You can read about other dangers here: 10 dangers for your cat in the home.
If you want to give your cat the freedom to choose between the balcony and the apartment, you can install a cat flap in the balcony door. You should also discuss this with the landlord.
Is no balcony available? That’s how it works!
If you don’t have a balcony, there is still the possibility to give your cat some sun and fresh air: choose a window that you transform into a small cat paradise.
You can widen the window sill a little and equip it with a cat mat. This makes it even more comfortable. If you provide the window with a cat net, Kitty can peek outside through the open window. Here, too, smaller flower pots can make the whole thing even prettier.