Let's discuss designing a Cat Park

Let us start with the question, “Does your pet really need to be able to go outside?”

Perhaps you’ve seen him sitting at the window and gazing outside. Or perhaps tried to walk between your legs when you open the door. Should we take either of these signs as positive proof your pet wants access to the great outdoors?

No!

He could be looking out the window just to see what’s going on. Have you never looked out at a heavy rain or a night filled with thunder? Does this mean you want to grab your coat and head on out there?
To answer bluntly, “Hell No!”

Any cat who has never been allowed to roam around outside cannot miss what they’ve never had. In fact, many apartment dwelling felines spend their entire lives having never looked up at the sky. Yet, they can be some of the happiest, most content and loved pets.

You may be asking yourself, “Why is this manufacturer of Cat Parks telling me I don’t need his product?”
The simple answer may be, “Because you may not.”

So, when should you consider a new park for your pet?

1. If you have a youngish cat that has never seen the outdoors and may well enjoy the fresh air.
If this is the case, start small. Let’s see if he enjoys the experience before jumping in with a park that meanders all around the backyard.

2. You’re sick and tired of the kitty litter tray in the laundry and would really like your pet to go outside to do his business.

3. You’re spending a fortune on boarding fees every time you want to go away for a few days and you want a pet-sitter to be able to give your pet food and water and check on him without having to enter the house.

4. You’re tired of having to lock your pet in the laundry when people come for a visit in fear somebody not used to having pets in the house might keep the door open too long.

5. If your pet has previously been allowed out but for any number of reasons and you decide to curtail that activity in his own best interest.

6. Your pet doesn’t just sit at the window but scratches at the glass like he’s trying to open it. Or, you must be constantly on guard when you open a door because you just know he’s hiding somewhere behind you, looking for his opportunity to scoot between your legs.

7. Because you spend a fair bit of time in the garden yourself and would enjoy your pet’s company without having to constantly monitor where he is.

These are just some of the very valid reasons why people ask us to build them a park. Just don’t jump in with the thinking that ALL cats just love being outdoors. And, don’t fall for any guilt trip that it’s cruel to keep a cat indoors 24/7.  In some cases, it can be beneficial.

This little, geriatric Ragdoll had a huge park at her disposal. She’d venture out from time to time but can usually be found curled up on the couch. She was 7 years old when she first saw the sky and she freaked out at the experience. Her owner had to coax her to give the park a go.

Her roommate on the other hand, spends 20 out of 24 hours in the day outside. Often sleeping out there on a hot night. There is no “Across the board” rule that all cats love being outside.

If, after reading this far you believe your pet would enjoy being outdoors, click the link below to see what your pet really wants in a park.