Cats are independent creatures that love having their own space. Whether it’s a small nook in your home or an entire room, creating a space that’s dedicated to your cat can make them feel happy and comfortable.
In this article, I’ll explain more about cat rooms and why they’re a hot new trend in home design. Plus, I’ll share 11 ideas for things to include in your cat room to make it the purrfect space for your feline friend.
What is a Cat Room?
A cat room is simply a designated space in your home that’s specifically for your cat. It can be as big or small as you like, but the important thing is that it’s a place where your cat can feel comfortable and safe.
Cat rooms are becoming increasingly popular as people learn more about feline behavior and the importance of providing cats with environmental enrichment. By creating a space that’s just for them, you can help your cat feel happy and secure in your home.
Plus, a cat room can be a great way to keep your cat out of trouble! If you have a kitten or an adventurous cat that likes to climb on things, having a safe place for them to explore can help prevent accidents and keep your home looking tidy.
How to Create the Perfect Cat Room
A cat room can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. If you have a small living space, consider setting up a cat nook with a bed, climbing shelves, and some toys. If you have a spare room, you can create an entire cat paradise complete with all the bells and whistles.
No matter what size space you have to work with, it’s important to consider your cat’s needs and preferences when creating their room. Keep reading for a rundown of my top 13 ideas for things to include in the ultimate cat room. From wallet-friendly to luxurious, there’s something here for everyone!
1) Comfortable Bed
Your cat deserves a cozy place to sleep, and there are lots of great beds available to suit any budget. If you have a small space, consider a hanging bed that can be easily mounted on the wall. For a larger room, a raised bed with sides is a good option.
2) Plenty of Scratching Surfaces
Scratching is a natural instinct for cats, so make sure your cat room has plenty of scratching surfaces to keep your cat’s claws healthy. Cardboard scratchers are budget-friendly and easy to find, or you can splurge on a stylish wooden scratcher with sisal rope.
3) Hiding Places
Cats feel safest when they have a place to hide, so include some hiding places in your cat room. Cardboard boxes, fabric tunnels, cat cubbies, and pet beds with high sides all make great hiding spots. If you’re feeling handy, you can even build a simple cat house out of wood.
4) Toys, Toys, Toys!
No matter what your budget is, your cat room should have plenty of interactive toys to keep your feline friend entertained. Cats love chasing balls, batting around toy mice, and chewing on crinkle toys. You can even make your own DIY cat toys out of everyday items!
5) Vertical Space
Cats love to climb, so give them plenty of vertical space to explore in their room. Wall-mounted cat shelves are a great way to add extra space without taking up too much floor space. For a larger room, a cat tree or climbing gym is the perfect way to let your kitty run wild!
6) A Window with a View
Many cats can spend hours watching the world go by from a sunny windowsill, so make sure your cat room has a good view. If there’s not enough space to stretch out and relax, install a cat hammock, shelf, or perch next to the window so your kitty can enjoy the view in comfort.
7) Litter Box
If there’s enough space, it’s a good idea to keep your cat’s litter box in the cat room. This will help prevent accidents outside of the litter box and make it easy for your cat to do their business in private. Just make sure to position the litter box in a quiet, out-of-the-way corner of the room away from their food, water, and bed.
8) Feeding Station
Having a designated feeding station in your cat’s room will help keep their food and water clean and fresh. If you have a small space, a simple bowl holder with food and water dishes is all you need. For a larger room, you could install a cat fountain or build a custom feeding station with storage for food and litter.
9) Cat-Themed Artwork
This one is more for you than your kitty but including some cat-themed artwork in your cat room can help give the space a cohesive look. Whether you go for cute cat portraits, mounted mice wall art, or something else entirely, a few well-chosen pieces can really bring the room together.
10) Storage
Don’t forget to include some storage in your cat room for all your kitty’s supplies. A simple cabinet or shelving unit can hold litter, toys, bedding, and more. If you have a larger room, you may even want to consider a walk-in closet where you can keep everything neatly organized and out of sight.
11) A Catio
If the space permits, consider adding a catio to your cat room. This is a great way to give your kitty some fresh air and exercise without having to worry about them getting out of the house. Catios come in all shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one to fit your space and budget.
What’s the Best Place for a Cat Room?
The best place for a cat room will depend on the size and layout of your home. If you have an entire room that you can dedicate to your cat, that’s ideal. If not, any small room or corner will do. Just make sure the space is large enough for all of the essentials, and that it’s located in a quiet area of the house where your cat can relax without being disturbed.
How Can You Make a Cat Room Safe?
Aside from making sure the room is comfortable and filled with all the essentials, you’ll also need to take some precautions to make sure your cat room is safe. First, check for potential escape routes and ensure all windows and doors are securely latched. If your cat room is located on an upper floor, install some window screens to prevent accidents.
Next, take a look around the room for any potential hazards. Remove any loose wires or cords, cover electrical outlets, and secure any items that could topple over and injure your cat. You’ll also want to remove or lock away any toxic plants, cleaners, or other chemicals.
Finally, when cleaning the cat room, always use non-toxic, pet-safe products. This will help keep your cat healthy and prevent them from ingesting any harmful chemicals. With these safety tips in mind, you can create a safe and enjoyable space for your cat to call their own.
Final Thoughts
Whether you have a small apartment or a large home, it’s worth considering creating a dedicated space for your cat. By outfitting the room with all the essentials, you can provide your kitty with a comfortable place to sleep, play, and relax. And, with a little bit of planning, you can ensure the room is safe and stylish, too. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your cat room today!
