Keeping an indoor cat happy and healthy, not only means providing them with proper nutrition and regular veterinary visits, but it also means keeping their environment enriched. With a little creativity, you can keep your cat stimulated and interested by bringing the outdoors inside by making them an indoor cat garden. They fit nicely into any living space and are easy on any cat owner's budget.
For your cat garden, you can consider using cat grass (wheatgrass), fresh catnip, parsley, mint, rosemary, lemongrass, thyme, oat, rye or barley. These herbs and grasses will have different effects on your cat, so be sure to do your research. If you are not sure what herbs or plants are cat friendly, it’s always best to double check with your veterinarian.
Check out our latest video where we demonstrate how to make an indoor cat garden using cat grass, fresh catnip, lemongrass and parsley.
Make your own fun cat garden!
What you’ll need:
- Wide & shallow ceramic pot
- Rocks for drainage & decor
- Organic potting soil
- 3-4 cat friendly plants (mentioned above)
- Trowel (Hand grip scoop/transplanter)
- Garden gloves (optional)
Creating a fun and cat-friendly indoor garden is a fantastic way to provide your furry friend with an engaging and stimulating environment. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you create a delightful cat garden with cat-friendly indoor plants:
1. Set up your DIY area (it might be best to do this one outside)
Select a suitable location in your home where your cat can access the garden easily. An area with natural sunlight is ideal, but you can also use artificial lighting to create a bright and inviting atmosphere.
2. Add a few rocks to the bottom of your pot for drainage
Enhance the drainage of your pot by placing several small rocks at the bottom before adding the soil, ensuring proper water flow, and preventing waterlogging.
3. Add in your potting soil (about halfway up your pot)
Filling up the container to about only halfway will leave sufficient space for your plants' roots to grow and establish a strong foundation.
4. Start placing your plants / herbs in the pot
Opt for non-toxic plants that are safe for cats. Cat grass, catnip, mint, and lemongrass are popular choices that cats love. Avoid toxic plants like lilies, philodendron, and pothos. Research thoroughly before introducing any new plants.
5. Fill with more soil & firm down your plants
Complete the planting process by adding additional soil to the container, gently pressing it down to provide optimal support for your plants and promote healthy root development.
6. Add some decorative rocks or a garden figurine (optional)
You can also incorporate interactive elements like hanging toys, feathers, and tunnels within the garden. These features provide entertainment and encourage your cat to explore and play.
7. Lightly water your new garden
Gently and evenly moisten the soil in your newly planted garden with a light watering, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone without causing any waterlogging. This will help your plants settle in and establish themselves comfortably.
8. Place near your cat’s favourite window or perch
Position your plant strategically by a bright window or on a suitable perch where it can receive the ideal amount of sunlight, allowing it to thrive and grow vigorously.
9. Watch your cat sniff, rub, explore & enjoy!
Always prioritize your cat's safety. Ensure that all plants and materials used are non-toxic and that the garden is secure. Supervise your cat's interactions with the garden, especially in the beginning.
Creating a fun and cat-friendly indoor garden is a rewarding project that enriches your cat's environment and promotes their well-being. By providing a variety of sensory experiences and engaging elements, you'll create a captivating haven where your feline friend can play, explore, and simply enjoy being a cat.