Our idea of a tidy house is often very boring for a cat. The purring pussycat prefers an ambience that is very varied, adventurous, slightly chaotic, playful and even cosy at times. Owners who are aware of this get more from their pet, say the experts from the specialist retail chain, Fressnapf.

Cats are little hunters and like to rule their territory. They love elevated places, like shelf surfaces, window sills or cupboards, which they prefer to be able to climb up onto. Give them the opportunity to climb by providing a cat ladder, multi-layer shelving or by hanging a sisal mat onto a wall. No cat's home should be without a sturdy climbing and scratching frame. If you don't provide your cat with something suitable to scratch it will find something on its own - and this can result in damaged walls, furniture or carpets. Furthermore, many climbing frames don't just provide nooks and crannies to hide away in but often have places for attaching toy balls, ropes, fabric or tassels. Fishing for and catching objects awakes a playful hunting instinct and keeps your pet fit. By the way, humans are very welcome playmates, too!

Since cats sleep or nap for around 15 hours a day, they need a sheltered place to rest and hide away in. Many armchair tigers have even been known to make themselves comfortable inside the drum of the washing machine or a cosy corner in the wardrobe - so always take a very close look before closing drawers, wardrobes and kitchen appliances! The best solution is to create several resting places in your home with a blanket, cushion or rug - by the window, on a shelf or close to a source of heat, for example. Proper snug hideaways, such as cat sleeping bags or baskets, also make suitable sleeping places.

Armchair tigers need a quiet little place where they can do their "business". Some even prefer to have two cat toilets, one for each function. Toilets with higher edges that the cat can peep over are ideal (approx. 5 cm). The cat needs sufficient space, it reacts very sensitively to disturbances or through traffic. Always position cat toilets within reach of, but not right next to, its feeding place - otherwise your pet will find another location that you will definitely not be so keen on ... Catmint and cat grass add the finishing touches to ‘purrfect’ paradise and prevent your pet from nibbling other foliage.

Danger is lurking!
You know that your cat is curious and playful. However, dangers that the animal can't detect are often lurking around the home.

Sharp objects:
knives, scissors and needles should all be kept out of reach.

Hiding places:
check the washing machine, tumble dryer and drawers before closing.

Heat and fire:
cover hot plates and boiling saucepans, don't leave the iron unattended and never leave a cat on its own in a room where candles are burning.

Poisonous plants:
do not keep azaleas, hyacinths, poinsettias or any other plants that are poisonous to cats as house plants.

Other toxins:
keep detergent, varnish, paint and medicines in a secure place.

Windows and balconies:
equip with tilt lock security and secure with protective cat wire. On top of this, toilet lids should be put down and plastic bags (risk of suffocation!) packed away.

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Home Environment for Cats (Photos may only be reproduced with permission and in connection with editorial text. High-resolution photos can be requested from the Fressnapf press office.)