What type of environment is best for cats to live in?

Take all reasonable steps to protect your cat from indoor and outdoor hazards. In the case of human beings, zen and fully feng shui-based environments can help relieve stress and contribute to the development of a peaceful and productive existence. However, when it comes to creating the best space for your cat, it's not the best way to do it without clutter and zen style. Some cats prefer to drink more “natural” water sources than tap water, so it can be beneficial to provide your cat with an additional rainwater option.

These can easily be created from dense shrubs and other leaves with irregular parts that the cat can cross to access the hiding place, as well as from old wooden boxes, tables and chairs (the latter can also be a good vantage point for the cat when sitting on top of them). A clear area containing wood chips, sand, or loose soil provides a suitable place for your cat to go to the bathroom, although your cat may have a particular preference, so it may be worth testing what “substrate” he likes best before building the latrine. Cats like to scratch surfaces to keep their claws in good shape, but they can also scratch to feel more secure in their environment and to signal their presence to other cats. Watch the following video to learn more about Battersea's advice on what to include in a nurturing, cat-friendly garden.

Honeysuckle: It is believed to have an effect similar to that of catnip on cats (although only about 30% of cats respond to it). In addition to providing the great components mentioned above to create a fantastic space for cats, be sure to let your cat spend time with you. Cats may like to scratch on both vertical and horizontal surfaces, so it may be beneficial to offer both options. An unfortunate side effect of making outdoor space irresistible to your cat is that cats from other neighboring homes may be just as willing to spend time there.

A very empty or “open” garden or outdoor space can make cats feel very vulnerable or exposed: they have nowhere to escape and hide if they get scared or see a challenging or unknown cat enter their territory.