As Canberrans continue to adjust to the cat containment laws that came into effect last month, RSPCA ACT has released their top tips for keeping cats happy and healthy at home.

The ACT is leading the way in cat safety with all cats born after 1 July 2022 now required to be kept within their owners’ premises 24 hours a day. Cats born before that date may have to be contained to the property if they live in one of the Capital’s 17 cat containment suburbs; these can be found on the City Services website.

Keeping cats contained not only reduces their impact on our native wildlife and environment, it also helps your cat live a longer, healthier life.

Here are some ways to ensure your cat is happy in their home:

1. Hide and Seek

Cats love to hide, and they also love to seek and watch. An elevated tower or hammock that gets some sun will allow them to keep an eye on the neighbourhood. Hiding places are an important part of any cat’s day as they provide peace and quiet for recharging and perfect spots for ambushing their target, you. Be sure to provide ample hiding spots for your cat. The RSPCA says they can be as simple as a cardboard box, drawer of clothing, or a cat bed.

2. All about the snacks

Who doesn’t love a choice of snacks? The RSPCA says an indoor cat’s life can be greatly improved with separate food areas spread across the house as it allows them to explore as they sniff out the sources. Puzzle feeders are a great way cats can entertain themselves throughout the day.

3. Chasing waterfalls

Don’t stick to the water bowls that you’re used to; invest in a water fountain for pets instead. Cats love to drink from running water and the RSPCA says fountains will provide your cat with fresh water and enrichment.

4. Cover the poop

Like us, cats like to feel comfortable and safe when relieving themselves. Not having somewhere to go can lead to unpleasant accidents somewhere your cat has found for themselves, such as laundry baskets, washing machines, or under the bed. The RSPCA says cats like to be able to dig comfortably, advising at least 6cm of kitty litter for them to dig through, while the tray should be a minimum of 1.5 times the length of your cat. More than one litter tray will help to avoid any accidents.

5. Scritch, scratch, having a blast

Cats love to have a good scratch. If you don’t provide a place for them to let out some steam, you can say goodbye to the carpet and sides of your couch. Scratching isn’t just something cats enjoy doing, it is a vital activity which helps them spread their scent to feel at home and helps keep claws healthy. RSPCA recommends providing a variety of scratching posts for your cat in different areas of the house; mix up surface textures to keep them engaged. Cat trees, especially tall ones, provide great scratching options, while many also have comfortable beds, fluffy toys and ropes or balls hanging from them which encourages cats to stalk, chase and pounce like they would in the wild.

If you think your cat is missing the feeling of the earth underneath their feet, should you take them for a walk down the street? While cats can be walked in public, it is not for all cats. Before stepping out the door, ensure your cat is properly harness trained and be prepared to take them home if they start to get stressed.

“RSPCA ACT was pleased with the legislation to allow cats to be walked in public,” Michelle Robertson, RSPCA ACT CEO said. “Whilst not all cats would be happy to be walked on a lead, these laws provide a welcome option for owners to spend quality outside time with their harness-trained cat.”

If, like most Canberrans, you love RSPCA ACT and cupcakes, this August you can combine the two! Canberrans are encouraged to host a bake day in their office, school or with friends to help raise funds for an organisation that aims to prevent animal cruelty.

Find out how to host your own cupcake day via  rspcacupcakeday.com.au

Find out more about how to keep you cat happy inside at safeandhappycats.com.au

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