Best ways to protect your home from indoor cats

Indoor cats can be wonderful companions, but they can also cause a fair amount of mischief around the house. From scratching furniture to knocking over items or chewing on electrical cords, the potential damage they can inflict is a common concern for cat owners. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to protect your home while ensuring your cat is comfortable and stimulated.

1. Invest in Cat-Proof Furniture

One of the most common problems with indoor cats is their tendency to scratch furniture. To prevent damage, it’s important to invest in cat-friendly furniture or take steps to protect your existing furniture. Here are a few strategies:

• Use Furniture Covers: There are special covers designed to protect furniture from pet damage. These can be placed on sofas or chairs and are typically made of durable materials that cats find less appealing to scratch.

• Opt for Cat-Resistant Materials: Consider furniture made from materials that are less likely to attract scratching, such as leather or microfiber, which can be more resistant to claw marks.

• Furniture Protection Tape: Sticky strips or transparent adhesive tapes can be applied to areas where cats scratch. Cats dislike the sticky texture, and this can deter them from scratching in those areas.

2. Provide Scratching Posts and Pads

Cats have an innate need to scratch. It’s essential to give them appropriate outlets for this behavior. Providing scratching posts and pads in various textures will encourage them to scratch in designated areas rather than on furniture or walls.

• Vertical Scratching Posts: Cats often prefer vertical scratching surfaces, so investing in a tall scratching post can be an excellent option. Place them near furniture or areas where your cat is most likely to scratch.

• Horizontal Scratching Pads: Some cats prefer to scratch horizontally, so placing a few cardboard scratching pads on the floor can offer a good alternative.

• Multiple Scratching Locations: Cats like variety, so offering scratching posts in different parts of the home can help keep them engaged and prevent them from seeking out your furniture.

3. Use Cat Deterrent Sprays

To protect areas that are prone to scratching or chewing, there are several commercial sprays available that deter cats. These sprays often contain scents that are unpleasant to cats, such as citrus or eucalyptus, without harming them.

• Citrus or Herbal Sprays: Cats tend to dislike citrus scents, so sprays made with orange, lemon, or lime essential oils can be a natural deterrent.

• Motion-Activated Deterrents: These devices can be placed near furniture or countertops to discourage your cat from jumping or scratching. They typically emit a harmless burst of air or sound when the cat approaches.

4. Protect Electrical Cords

Cats are notorious for chewing on cords, which can be dangerous both for your cat and your electrical appliances. Here are some ways to minimize this risk:

• Cord Protectors: Use plastic or rubber covers for cords to prevent your cat from chewing on them. These covers are designed to be durable and safe.

• Cable Management Systems: Keeping cords out of sight can also reduce the temptation for your cat. Use cable management systems or hidden cord boxes to keep cords neatly bundled and out of reach.

• Citrus Sprays for Cords: Just as with furniture, you can apply a citrus-based spray to electrical cords to make them less appealing.

5. Secure Fragile Items

Cats are curious and love to jump onto counters and shelves, which can lead to broken or damaged items. Here are some ways to keep your valuables safe:

• Keep Fragile Items Out of Reach: Try to place fragile or valuable items on higher shelves or in cabinets that your cat cannot access. If possible, use closed cabinets to store breakable objects.

• Non-Slip Mats: If you need to place items on counters or tables, using non-slip mats can prevent your cat from knocking them over. These mats hold objects in place, reducing the chance of items toppling over.

• Use Cat-Proof Decor: Opt for decor that is heavy and stable, making it less likely to fall when your cat investigates. Avoid placing lightweight or easily tipped items in areas where your cat has access.

6. Create a Safe Outdoor Space

If you want to give your indoor cat a taste of the outdoors without worrying about safety or damage to your home, consider creating an enclosed outdoor space.

• Catios: A catio is a secure, enclosed outdoor area where cats can enjoy fresh air and natural stimulation without the risks of roaming freely. Catios can be as simple as a small balcony enclosure or as elaborate as a large yard structure.

• Leash Training: Another option is to train your cat to walk on a leash. This allows them to explore the outdoors under your supervision, keeping them safe while avoiding the destruction that comes with unsupervised outdoor access.

7. Keep Cat Litter Clean and Accessible

A clean litter box is essential for your cat’s well-being, but it also helps protect your home from unnecessary messes. Cats may try to find alternative places to relieve themselves if their litter box isn’t kept clean or accessible.

• Regular Cleaning: Clean your cat’s litter box daily to prevent odors and ensure your cat always has a clean place to use.

• Multiple Boxes: If you have multiple cats, make sure each one has access to their own litter box. A general rule of thumb is to provide one litter box per cat, plus one extra.

• Litter Mats: Place a litter mat under the box to catch any stray litter particles that may escape when your cat exits the box.

8. Create Cat-Free Zones

Designating certain areas of your home as “cat-free zones” can help protect specific spaces from damage. For example, you might want to keep your kitchen, bedroom, or home office free from your cat’s antics.

• Use Baby Gates or Barriers: Setting up baby gates or physical barriers can keep your cat out of areas where you don’t want them to go.

• Train with Positive Reinforcement: If your cat attempts to enter a restricted area, you can train them with positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to redirect them to more acceptable areas.

9. Regular Grooming and Nail Clipping

Cats’ claws can cause scratches and damage to both your home and themselves if not properly maintained. Regular grooming, including nail clipping, can help protect your home and ensure your cat’s claws are not too sharp.

• Trim Claws Regularly: Trim your cat’s claws every couple of weeks to prevent them from becoming too long and sharp. If you’re unsure how to do this, consult a veterinarian or professional groomer for guidance.

• Use Soft Paws: Some cat owners use products like Soft Paws, which are soft plastic caps that can be placed over a cat’s claws to prevent scratching.

10. Provide Plenty of Entertainment

Finally, to keep your cat from getting bored and engaging in destructive behavior, provide plenty of entertainment. Cats need stimulation to stay mentally and physically healthy, and engaging toys can keep them occupied and out of trouble.

• Interactive Toys: Toys that move or make sounds can keep your cat engaged. Consider puzzle feeders or toys that encourage your cat to use their hunting instincts.

• Cat Trees and Play Structures: A multi-level cat tree can offer climbing opportunities, scratching posts, and areas for lounging. These structures help satisfy your cat’s need to climb and explore.

By taking these steps, you can protect your home while keeping your indoor cat happy and healthy. With a little planning and investment, you can create a cat-friendly environment that minimizes damage and maximizes comfort for both you and your feline friend.