Christmas is coming, and we all want to treat our loved ones – whether it’s friends, family or our four-legged companions.
When it comes to cats, it turns out that some of the very best treats will hardly cost you a penny and can be fun to make at home.
Cats Protection recommends five top treats which owners can make to give their feline friend the perfect gift this Christmas.
The charity’s Behaviour Manager Nicky Trevorrow said: “People sometimes think they need to spend lots of money on the top toys and gadgets for their pets, but cats actually have pretty modest needs. In fact, many cat owners have probably experienced buying their pet a new bed or toy, and finding that they’re more interested in the packaging!
“We’ve put together some ideas for budget-friendly treats for cats which they will absolutely love. What’s more, they can be great fun to make and can keep kids occupied in those exciting few days before Christmas.”
- Vintage dining: Cats have very sensitive whiskers, and it can be uncomfortable if they’re pressed against the sides of small feeding bowls. This is why they prefer wide, shallow dishes like saucers, and you’ll find plenty to choose from at charity shops. Have fun creating a vintage dining set for your moggy – just make sure they’re free from chips or cracks.
- Make a cat fortress: Find a use for those delivery boxes and create a dreamy haven for your cat by making a cardboard cat castle. Simply cut a hole for your cat to enter and line with a cosy blanket. If you’re feeling creative, you can use several boxes to make a mini moggy village and decorate with non-toxic paint, felt tips and snuggly cushions.
- Manicure station: All cats have an instinct to keep their claws in tip-top condition by scratching, and making a moggy manicure station will help avoid them damaging furniture and carpet. Watch how your cat prefers to scratch – some prefer vertical scratching posts whereas others choose flat surfaces – and then plan your area. You can buy scratching posts and pads, or create your own with old scraps of carpet, cardboard or thick twine wrapped around a post or board.
- Brain training: Cats love games, especially those which challenge them mentally and physically. Raid the contents of your recycling bin and you’ll find lots of material to make feeding toys – any box or container you can punch holes into is ideal, and your cat will enjoy working out how to fish out their biscuits.
- Catnip crazy: While we may enjoy a Christmas tipple, cats may like to get in the festive spirit with a catnip toy. Not all cats are susceptible, but those which are will have an ecstatic response to the dried or fresh form of this herb. Dried catnip is available in pet shops or online and you can make your own toys by dropping a couple of tablespoons into an old sock and tying off in a knot.
For more cat care advice, visit www.cats.org.uk
