Feline friends

■ Provide a hiding place outside the door or cat flap to give cats a safe place to go if they feel they need to run for cover and hide while they assess their environment.

■ Plants that attract flying insects into the garden are not only good for wildlife but can provide stimulation for your cat too! Adding catnip, catmint and cat grass are particular feline favourites.

■ Some felines enjoy being outside in all conditions, although they still appreciate some shelter to keep them dry and warm when the weather takes a turn.

An old wooden box or purpose-built ‘cat house’ will do just the trick, such as this

Rosewood Eco Outdoor House and Shelter, below, from Amazon.co.uk (£38.19). Wood Green says: “Cats love to climb and typically feel safer when they can survey their territory from high up. Where possible, provide them with logs, posts and perching platforms.”