The best thing I’ve done for my home since getting a cat

Getting a cat brings joy, companionship, and a whole lot of personality into a home. But it also comes with its fair share of adjustments—scratched furniture, litter box smells, fur on everything, and the occasional 3 AM zoomies. Out of all the little changes and improvements I’ve made to accommodate life with a feline roommate, the best thing I’ve done for my home since getting a cat has to be creating a dedicated cat-friendly space. Not only did it improve my cat’s well-being, but it completely transformed the way we live together.

The Cat Corner: A Game Changer

At first, I was just trying to make sure my cat had everything she needed—food, water, a litter box, a comfy place to nap. But slowly, I started to realize that cats need more than just the basics. They need stimulation, places to scratch, opportunities to climb, and cozy hideouts. So, I decided to go all in and turn a quiet, underused corner of my living room into a feline paradise.

It started with a tall, multi-level cat tree positioned near a window. She immediately claimed the top perch as her throne. Next came wall-mounted climbing shelves, giving her a vertical highway that doubled as exercise and entertainment. I added a hammock that attaches to the window, so she can sunbathe while keeping an eye on the world outside. A few soft blankets, catnip toys, and scratching posts later, and the space was complete.

Not only did this make my cat happier and more relaxed, but it also meant she was less interested in clawing my couch or jumping on the kitchen counter. Her needs were being met, and it showed in her behavior.

Solving the Litter Box Problem

Litter boxes are one of the least glamorous parts of cat ownership. I quickly learned that where you place the box, how often you clean it, and even what kind of litter you use can make or break your home’s vibe.

I invested in a high-quality, covered litter box that controls odors and gives my cat privacy. I placed it in a quiet, low-traffic area and started using clumping, low-dust, unscented litter that’s gentle on her paws. I also got a litter mat to catch stray particles and a small air purifier to keep the surrounding air fresh.

This one change made my home feel significantly cleaner and more pleasant. There’s no lingering smell, no litter tracked through the house, and my cat seems much more comfortable with her setup.

Cat-Proofing with Style

Let’s be honest—cats can be destructive. They chew on cords, knock things off shelves, and scratch anything within reach. At first, I tried to train her out of these behaviors. Then I realized it’s easier and more effective to adapt the environment.

I started with cord protectors, which not only stopped the chewing but also made things look neater. I replaced fragile decorations with sturdier items or simply moved them out of reach. I added double-sided tape to furniture corners temporarily until she redirected her scratching to the posts I provided.

I even found some stylish furniture pieces that double as cat homes—like a mid-century modern side table that has a cozy nook for her to nap in. My space still looks put-together, but it’s totally cat-friendly. The blend of form and function has been a big win.

Investing in an Automatic Feeder and Water Fountain

Before these gadgets, feeding time was a bit chaotic. She would wake me up early for food or try to get my attention whenever her bowl was empty. Then I bought an automatic feeder with scheduled meal times. It keeps her routine consistent and prevents overeating. She’s healthier, and I get to sleep in.

The water fountain was another upgrade that improved both her health and the cleanliness of my home. Cats are naturally drawn to running water, and this keeps her hydrated while also reducing the risk of stagnant water spills. Plus, the design fits seamlessly with my decor.

Decluttering and Creating Vertical Space

One unexpected benefit of having a cat was that I had to seriously rethink my clutter. Cats will explore every nook and cranny, which means fragile items, wires, and small objects had to go. I streamlined my space, which made it easier to clean and more visually calming.

Then I added vertical storage and decor—things like tall bookshelves, wall-mounted plants (out of reach), and even floating nightstands. My cat gets more climbing opportunities, and I get more floor space. It’s a win-win.

The Sound Sanctuary

Another subtle but game-changing improvement was creating a soothing sound environment. Cats can be sensitive to sudden or loud noises, so I started using a white noise machine in areas she likes to nap. Not only does it keep her calm, but it also helps drown out city sounds for me.

I’ve also curated a playlist of calming classical and ambient music that I play when I’m away. I swear she’s less anxious when I return.

Routine Cleaning Upgrades

Living with a cat means fur—everywhere. I upgraded my cleaning tools to make life easier. A cordless vacuum with a pet hair attachment, a reusable lint roller, and a microfiber mop have all been absolute essentials.

I also added washable throws to the couch and my bed. These get laundered weekly and help protect furniture from fur and the occasional paw print. This small step has made a big difference in keeping my space fresh and tidy.

A Better Home for Both of Us

What started as a few tweaks quickly turned into a full-on lifestyle shift. But creating a cat-friendly home doesn’t mean sacrificing your style or comfort. In fact, the changes I made—dedicated spaces, better organization, smarter tools—benefited me just as much as my cat.

She’s more relaxed, better behaved, and visibly happy. I’m more at ease, my home is cleaner and better designed, and the bond we’ve built has only deepened.

So yes, the best thing I’ve done for my home since getting a cat wasn’t one single item or fix—it was learning to share my space thoughtfully. And in doing so, I didn’t just make my home better for my cat. I made it better for me, too.