Top 10 Accessories to Upgrade Your Cat Enclosure
As a pet owner, it’s natural for us to want to spoil our cat and give them a happy life. One way of helping them achieve a high level of satisfaction is by providing them a shelter for them to unwind and relax in—a cat enclosure, in other words.
That said, leaving the cat enclosure with only the bare essentials like a food and water bowl can make your cat detest their time in the confined space. Their dislike for the space can lead them to act out in destructive ways, which can be risky for their health and for the durability of their enclosure.
The good news is that there are some ways you can make them enjoy their time in their kennel—and one of the best ones is by adding accessories into this space. From cat towers to scracthing posts, there are a variety of cat toys and accessories to pick from to give your cat the time of their lives in their enclosure.
If you’re curious to know these accessories, then read on. We’ll lay out ten accessories that you can buy to accessorise your cat enclosure. Let’s jump right into it.
Cat Tower
One of the top accessories for cat enclosures to keep your cat happy and content is a cat tower.
Cats naturally want to feel secure and safe. A cat tower offers that by allowing your cat to access a higher elevation, giving them a feeling of security and control over their environment.
On top of that, cat towers are also mentally enriching for cats. The varying heights and platforms can give your cat a few selections of where to rest and recuperate. This can make them look forward to cosying up in their cat enclosure whenever it’s time for them to stay in there.
Cat Beds
Another excellent accessory to put in your cat enclosure is a cat bed. Cats naturally sleep for over 16 hours a day, and just like any other mammal, they want to feel cosy and safe whenever they enter that state of slumber.
A dedicated cat bed helps your cat feel safe and cosy in their cat enclosure. The soft texture of the bed can get them to enter that sleepful state more easily, making them easier to care for as a pet owner.
Plus, a cat bed also makes Somerzby's range of cat enclosures feel more like a safe and private haven for your pet instead of a restrictive cage. In turn, this can make your cat wake up feeling more refreshed and healthy.
Scratching Posts
Cats can be quite destructive if their needs aren’t met. They could destroy furniture and pillows with their claws as a means of stimulation, which can be rather costly if left unchecked.
A good way cat owners can transfer that energy into a better target is by putting scratching posts in their cat enclosure.
These scratching posts are specifically designed to handle constant scratches and gnaws, making them an excellent addition to your cat enclosure if your cat is particularly fiesty.
Furthermore, scratching posts are also made with materials that file your cat’s nails, keeping them from being too sharp. This dual purpose helps make your domesticated cat more easy and safe to care for and play with.
Cat Tunnels
Another good addition to a big cat enclosure is a cat tunnel system. Cats instinctually love to hide and hunt, and a tunnel is a good way to channel that instinct in a safe and satisfying way.
There are ready-made cat tunnels available in many pet retail stores, and they can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Putting even just a basic cat tunnel system can help provide your cat a place to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed or in need to rest. Plus, it can also help them meet their exploratory needs.
A Perch
As previously mentioned, cats love having the freedom to access higher levels. Putting a perch or platform where they can look at their surroundings from above is a good way to provide them that liberty.
A perch can be particularly enticing for your cat if it’s facing a scenic place, like at a window or garden. This gives your cat some visual stimulation, makes them feel protected, and fulfills their intellectual needs all at the same time.
Artificial or Cat-Safe Plants
Plants add a touch of colour to any space, and this includes cat enclosures. Putting some in your cat enclosure can add to the vibrancy of the layout, making it both pleasing to look at and mentally enriching.
Some plants also serve functional purposes. For instance, cat grass, catnip, and valerian root all have health properties that can aid in digestion and stomach discomfort. Dandelions can be great for supporting liver and kidney function as well.
On the flipside, you should also be very cautious of what plants you add to your cat’s enclosure—or your home, for that matter. Some plants can be dangerous to your cat when ingested, causing a rapid decline of health and possible death if left untreated. So be sure to do your research before outfitting your cat’s enclosure with plants.
Water Fountains
Just like any living animal, cats need hydration to go about their day. Stagnant water from a water bowl can be used up quickly during hot days or when your cat feels thirsty, and if you’re the sole owner and won’t be back home quickly, this can lead to hours of thirst for your feline friend.
A good way to keep your cat’s thirst quenched is by using a water fountain. This accessory automatically dispenses flowing water, keeping a constant stream of water flowing for your cat whenever they feel the need to drink.
On top of that primary function, water fountains can also stagnate and harbour bacteria. This greatly reduces health risks and keeps your cat refreshed and healthy.
Litter Box
A litter box is a must-have accessory for every cat owner, and having a dedicated one for your cat enclosure is a good way to maintain the space’s hygiene.
Cats take care of their hygiene quite seriously, making a litter box a naturally great addition for their enclosure. When choosing one, pick an odour-free and easy-clean design to make things easier for you to manage whenever it’s time to clean and refill the litter box.
If you want to add a more premium touch, you can consider installing a privacy screen to make your cat feel less vulnerable when doing their business. This addition can make cleanup significantly easier for both you and your cat.
Temperature Mats
If you/re installing a cat enclosure outdoors or in temperatures your cat can’t comfortably handle, then you should consider instaling a temperature mat.
For instance, if the weather outside is too warm, you can install a cooling mat to keep your cat cool during the hot season. Conversely, cold weather would entail the need for a heated pad.
If your location experiences both weathers throughout the year, your cat enclosure would definitely need to have either of the two mats during the appropriate weather.
This way, you can avoid temperature-related illnesses like dehydration or stiffness. It can also keep older cats less likely to experience joint issues related to heat stress.
Food Bowl or Dispenser
Lastly, a food bowl or dispenser is another piece of equipment that your cat can greatly benefit from. The purpose is simple but highly essential, and that is to give your cat a place to eat.
The choice between the two is up to you. A food bowl is a classic addition, and if you can keep on top of your feeding habits, then it’s more than enough for your cat’s new haven.
A food dispenser helps give food to your cat in regular intervals without needing your constant supervision. If you are away from home for a long time, then you can consider this alternative to ensure that your cat is adequately fed.
We hope that you consider these accessories for your cat enclosure. Best of luck in your shopping spree!