Creating a Cat-Friendly Home: Tips for Enriching Indoor Spaces by a Cat Behaviourist

Cat Grass

Cats are complex, sensitive animals with a strong need for mental stimulation and control. As a Cat Behaviourist, I’ve worked with many families who feel stuck managing litter box issues, cat aggression, or anxious behaviour—often without realizing their cats are simply bored or under-stimulated.

That’s why I was thrilled to be featured in a Redfin article! Check it out here: 21 Tips On How to Make Your Cat Happy at Home | Alongside other pet professionals, I shared ideas to help make indoor environments more enriching and supportive for our feline companions.

Why Environmental Enrichment Matters

Cats evolved to hunt, explore, climb, and hide. When these natural behaviours aren’t supported in the home, cats may become frustrated, withdrawn, or act out. Behaviour concerns like inappropriate scratching, aggression between cats, or even spraying can often be traced back to unmet environmental needs.

Enriching your cat’s environment is more than just adding toys, though toys do help! It means creating opportunities for play, choice, independence, and comfort throughout your home. This is especially important in multi-cat households where tension can arise over shared territory or limited resources.

Easy Ways to Enrich Your Cat’s Indoor Space

Whether you live in a house or a small apartment, you can make changes that support your cat’s mental and emotional well-being. Here are some ideas featured in the Redfin piece:

• Vertical space: Add cat trees, window perches, and shelves so your cat can climb and observe their environment from above.

• Interactive play: Use wand toys, puzzle feeders, and food-dispensing toys to mimic hunting and keep your cat engaged.

• Scent and sound enrichment: Rotate cat-safe herbs like silvervine or valerian root, and use calming soundtracks or nature sounds to stimulate the senses.

• Safe hiding spaces: Provide cozy boxes, cat caves, or tents where your cat can retreat when they need downtime.

• Training and games: Yes, you can train a cat! Clicker training and pattern games provide cats with mental stimulation and help build their confidence.

• Cat grass is a great option for enrichment: Try leaving some around in different areas for them to find.

  
  

Support for Multi-Cat Homes

If you have more than one cat, enrichment becomes even more essential. Look for ways to:

• Offer multiple feeding stations, water bowls, and litter boxes in separate locations.

• Provide individual playtime and resting areas to reduce competition.

• Observe how your cats interact—some may prefer parallel play or solitary enrichment.

Many of my clients see positive changes simply by reworking their home layout or daily routine to better meet their cats’ needs.

Want More Help From a Cat Behaviourist?

If you're looking to reduce stress, improve your cat’s behaviour, or simply create a more cat-friendly space, I can help. Visit my consultations page or get in touch to schedule a consultation.