How to have the Purr-fect Combination : Cats and Gardening

" A garden full of textures, colours and amazing spaces"

Imagine a serene garden, where vibrant flowers sway in the breeze, aromatic herbs release their sweet fragrance, and the gentle hum of bees fills the air. Now, picture a cat leisurely strolling through this verdant paradise, pausing to bask in the sun or chase a fluttering butterfly. For many, this idyllic scene is the ultimate dream—merging the joys of gardening with the companionship of a feline friend. But how can you create a harmonious space where both your plants and your cats can thrive? Here’s a comprehensive guide to cultivating a garden that’s perfect for you and your furry companion.

Welcome to the world of cat-friendly gardening!

Understanding the Benefits

For You:

        •       Therapeutic Benefits: Gardening is known for its therapeutic effects, reducing stress and enhancing mental well-being. The presence of a cat can amplify these benefits, as their calm and playful nature can bring joy and relaxation.

        •       Aesthetic Pleasure: A beautiful garden is a feast for the eyes, and watching your cat explore this space adds an extra layer of delight.

        •       Physical Activity: Gardening keeps you physically active, and having a cat ensures you’re up and about, interacting with your environment.

For Your Cat:

        •       Natural Exploration: Gardens provide a safe and stimulating environment for cats to explore, satisfying their natural curiosity.

        •       Exercise: Chasing insects, climbing small trees, and running through open spaces offer ample exercise opportunities for your cat.

        •       Mental Stimulation: The variety of scents, sights, and sounds in a garden keeps your cat mentally engaged and happy.

Why Cats Love Gardens

Cats are natural explorers. Gardens offer a variety of textures, scents, and sights that stimulate their senses. From the rustling leaves to the darting insects, a garden is a playground for a curious kitty. Plus, outdoor spaces provide the perfect setting for a cat to engage in instinctual behaviors like climbing, hunting, and sunbathing.

Creating a Cat-Friendly Garden

Incorporate elements that cater to your cat’s playful nature. Cat tunnels, scratching posts disguised as garden sculptures, and dangling toys can keep your cat entertained. Designing a garden that’s safe and enjoyable for your cat doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some tips to get started:       

1.      Safe Plants:     

  •     Opt for non-toxic plants like catnip, cat grass, rosemary, lavender and silver vine. Avoid harmful plants such as lilies, azaleas, poinsettias, and oleander. 

  •       Incorporate a mix of tall grasses and low-lying shrubs for your cat to hide and explore. 

Check out these cute products :

Cat Grass Kits https://amzn.to/4cJvN0S

Black Mug Cute Cat Grass Kit https://amzn.to/3XWnZF7

"Lots of greenery and scents to explore"

    2.      Shady Spots and Sunbathing Areas:   

• Designate specific areas for your cat to enjoy. This could include soft patches of grass for lounging, shaded areas for napping, and elevated spots for climbing and surveying their territory.    

• Cats love to bask in the sun, but they also need shady areas to cool down. Create a mix of sunlit patches and shaded nooks using pergolas, large potted plants, or even a custom cat tent.       

I thoroughly recommend these products below:

Very handy Portable Sunshade Playpen that you can be moved around the garden depending on your preference https://amzn.to/4crifaF

A gorgeous looking Elevated Canopy for Cats - Waterproof and Sunproof for those hot summer days https://amzn.to/45ZR8Rw

"Lots of Trees providing shades, hiding spots and exploration areas"

3.      Water Features:       

•  A small, shallow water feature can be both a decorative element and a hydration station for your cat. Just make sure it’s not too deep to prevent any accidental falls.   

• Cats are often intrigued by water. A small, safe water feature like a bubbling fountain can provide entertainment and a fresh water source.

Here are some cool ideas to incorporate in their outdoor time:

Water fountains for hydration during peak summer months https://amzn.to/3Y1KhFh

Or this very handy battery operated wireless fountain https://amzn.to/3xIjFP5

For the cats who like to just sit and watch, you can combine these two together and create a magical fountain. Best part is that it is solar powered!

https://amzn.to/3XTcVbG

A nature garden with a few gold fish for your cat to sit and watch on those long summer days https://amzn.to/3zNE1GY

I actually used normal planters that has no drainage holes on them at the bottom and filled it with water and plants to create mini water features. You can use themes, colours and your choice of preferences to suit your styles! Some really great planters that are amazing values on amazon are as per below:

https://amzn.to/4bMSQHc

https://amzn.to/3S65REU

https://amzn.to/3zzo1Z9 (my favourite one!)

"Cats are often intrigued by water"

4.      Climbing Structures:       

•       Use natural elements like tree stumps, logs, and branches to create climbing structures. This allows your cat to exercise and enjoy a vantage point. 

I love this artificial weatherproof palm tree with natural scratching post. Not only does it look cool but it saves your furniture from kitty harm! https://amzn.to/4demyGv

Or for a more nature inspiring look try this https://amzn.to/4bzCNfL

"Trees and climbing posts make excellent natural environments for cats"

5.      Safe Boundaries:       

•       Ensure your garden is secure to prevent your cat from wandering off. Cat-proof fencing or netting can keep your feline friend safe while they explore.

If you are worried about your precious cats from wondering off, here's some cat nettings that I recommend keeping them safe and away from predators https://amzn.to/4cB1tWL

Another good product that you can customize around your outdoor area is using these nets https://amzn.to/4cvkkCq

"Fence enclosures keeping my herbs & salad plants clean and hygienic from the cats"

Or if you are anything like me and would like to keep their fury paws away from doing their business in your garden of salads and herbs, I thoroughly recommend these fencing. Trust me, this keeps my cats away from my salad/herb gardens, which I mostly eat raw!

Enclose your veges with these https://amzn.to/3zL2Mne so that it keeps the cats away from using your vege spot as their llitter box. Dedicate a seperate open space elsewhere for them to use as their litter area.

Gardening with Your Cat:

Gardening can be a relaxing activity, and having your cat by your side makes it even more enjoyable. Here are a few ways to involve your cat in your gardening routine:       

• Supervised Outdoor Time: Spend time with your cat in the garden, allowing them to explore while you tend to the plants. This ensures they stay safe and gives you both quality time together.       

• Natural Pest Control: Encourage natural pest control by attracting beneficial insects like ladybugs and bees. Avoid chemical pesticides and opt for organic solutions to keep your garden safe for your cat.

• Regular Maintenance: Regularly check your garden for any new hazards, such as sharp objects or toxic plants that may have appeared. Keep the garden clean and free of debris.

• Interactive Play: Use garden-friendly toys like feathers on a stick or laser pointers to engage your cat in playtime among the plants.     

Stick these in your planter pots to amuse them for hours of fun while being outside https://amzn.to/4cRcAue 

•       Planting Catnip: Grow a small patch of catnip or cat grass. Your cat will love nibbling on the fresh greens, and it’s a fun project to share.

You will love this easy to grow catnip at home. Just open can, water and watch the cat grass magically grow https://amzn.to/3WgAB8D

Benefits of a Cat-Friendly Garden:

Creating a garden that caters to your cat’s needs can have numerous benefits:       

• Physical Exercise: Encourages your cat to stay active, promoting better health and reducing the risk of obesity.       

• Mental Stimulation: The varied environment prevents boredom and provides mental enrichment.       

• Stress Reduction: Nature has a calming effect on both humans and animals, reducing stress levels.       

• Bonding Time: Gardening together strengthens the bond between you and your feline companion.

• Photography: Capture the beauty of your garden and the charming antics of your cat. These photos can be cherished memories or shared with fellow cat and garden enthusiasts.

• Relaxation: Create a cozy spot where you can relax with your cat. A comfortable garden bench or a hammock can be the perfect place to unwind together. My cats love sitting and watching the birds in the garden on this adorable chair. Best part is that it is free standing and does not need any other added structures for support! https://amzn.to/4f5j2js
  

"A cool relaxing area enjoyed by both - humans and the cats alike!"

Integrating your love for cats and gardening can transform your outdoor space into a haven of tranquility and joy. Not only will you have a beautiful garden to enjoy, but your cat will also have a stimulating environment to explore. So, grab your gardening gloves, let your cat out, and start creating your purr-fect garden oasis today!

By following these tips, you can make sure your garden is a delightful and safe space for both you and your cat. Happy gardening!

What are your thoughts?

What other ways can one make an ultimate cat friendly garden.

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Thank you for all your sup-paw-t!