Q How can I make my garden more cat friendly? CREATE A TOILETING AREA

AIf you are looking for ideas to turn your plot into a haven for your cat, here are some top tips to get you started:

NATURAL SCRATCHING

If you are lucky enough to have trees in your garden, these are great for cats

to climb and explore, but also to scratch. If you

don’t have trees, why not get an old tree trunk that you can put in your outdoor space that your

cat can scratch.

SHADED AREAS

Shade is a vital element in a garden designed for cats. If you don’t have the ideal spot for a large shrub or small tree, a roomy container planted with the sort of ‘jungley’ plants that provide a natural parasol will give shade to sheltered corners or paved areas.You can also create shade with items such as tables, sheds, or home-made shelters.

LIGHT SHOW

Hanging reflective

materials from high branches or furniture can provide

movements and reflections that will

excite your cat.

HERBS

Plant some herbs that will attract insects (make sure they are safe for cats) as your feline friend will enjoy watching the movement and

chasing them.

If there is one issue that can set neighbour against neighbour, it is inappropriate cat toileting. Our felines just can’t resist that patch of recently tilled soil. One solution is to provide your cat with their own toileting area. Choose a secluded spot, provide privacy with surrounding plants and pots, and raise up a bed using timber gravel board nailed together at the corners, then fill it with bags of topsoil available from most garden centres. It can be cleaned out every few days.

SECURITY

The most important feeling for your cat in the garden is safety. It is their territory and they will want to ensure it does not get invaded by other cats.The most comprehensive way to keep other cats out is to install cat fencing that will keep your pet in and wandering moggies out. If this is not for you, it is a good idea to give your feline high spots where he can claim vantage to watch over his patch and ensure where he accesses the garden is not somewhere he can get easily ambushed. Provide cover near the cat flap so he can hide and observe the garden before venturing further into it.

PLANT SOME CAT GRASS

Seeds of cat grass can be bought by mail order, including from mycatgrass. co.uk It is a real favourite as chewing a few tender grass

stems is an aid to feline digestion and helps them to expel furballs. As well as cat grass, you could grow your own catnip and give your

feline a real high!