Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Cat Trees Can Help Your Indoor Cat Get Exercise

By Carol Navagato

When it comes to cats, they have certain instincts and needs and you can solve a lot of them with a cat tree. Cat trees are simply wooden structures that allow cats to climb indoors. They come in many varieties and styles, and with a bit of research you could actually build one yourself if you have a certain design or need within your home.

There are those pre-made cat trees at most of the pet products stores. Usually made of wood that's been covered with carpet. This allows your kitty to have traction or to sharpen their claws on the wood or carpet. It also offers platforms that your kitty will climb too to rest or play. Some have just one platform and others have multiple platforms and houses at the top. All of this benefits the health of your cat.

If you have an indoor cat you're probably already aware how much they like to sit or lay above, meaning you'll often find them on the top of a bookcase, TV or the top of your closet. The cat trees allow them to follow the instinct and get above thing easily and safely without leaving a deposit of cat hair all over your books or clothes.

Cats who have cat trees wind up exercising more than those who do not, especially if they are a totally indoor cat who doesn't get a chance to run and play outdoors. In order for your cat not to become overweight you'll need to supply ways that they can exercise and the more natural it is, the more they'll do it. In fact, many of the climbing trees offer areas for you to hang toys or put toys to encourage your cat a bit more.

If you have special needs in your home where a pre-made cat tree will not fit, or you have more room and would like a bigger cat tree than you can find, you can build them yourself. It really doesn't take much to do. You'll need some very basic building skills such as using a hammer and nails, a small saw and be able to follow a building plan.

Also, by building your own kitty tree you can choose carpeting that complements your home. And if you're on a skimpy budget, look to remnants, or watch the want ads for someone giving away carpet. Once again, don't forget to make the stability of the tree the most important part, the last thing you need is cat and 7-8 ft of climbing tree coming down in your living room.

It really doesn't matter whether you build your own cat trees or purchase those ready made, it's not about where or how you get one, it's about the health of your kitty. Be sure that you entice your cat to exercise, as well as watch their diet. It's healthy for cats to run, play and climb and a cat tree can offer a safe way to do it.

It's easy to find cat trees, look anywhere pet products are available, check online, and look in the want ads for a used cat tree if you need to find one cheaper. Build your own if your on a budget or need one of special dimensions. Don't forget when shopping for your cat tree online that you'll need to add shipping and handling into the cost.

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