The ability to express normal behaviour

There are a few simple ways to keep your cat happy, safe and healthy at home.

1.1 A cosy bed to sleep in

On average, cats spend about 16 hours a day sleeping.

They generally rest or sleep intermittently throughout the day and will prefer to sleep undisturbed in a warm, comfortable, quiet and safe place.

Cats often prefer to rotate their chosen sleeping area so you may find them sleeping in different places.

There are so many different types of cat beds you can purchase from flat donut shaped beds to cosy igloos.

It is not just the shape, size or fabric of a bed that matters, it can often be simply the position of the bed that will either attract or deter a cat from using it. Giving your cat a choice will help you establish what she likes.

1.2 Safe places to hide and get up high

Cats live in a three-dimensional world, and therefore must be able to access high places. Not only does it allow them to feel safe and secure, but it also gives them the opportunity to survey their territory.

Vertical spaces provide escape routes during challenging times such as:  Over-exuberant children in the home.  Tension in multi cat households.  Unwanted attention from other animals.  Unfamiliar visitors or scary noises such as the hoover or fireworks.

You will also need to provide hiding places at ground level. A hiding place can be something as simple as a cardboard box on its side, an igloo style cat bed, a space under the bed, or a wardrobe with the door left ajar. Cats shouldn’t be disturbed whilst in their hiding place. They should be able to see the door to the room from their hidey hole, so they won’t be startled.