cat Archives

How To Build Your Own Catio: A Step By Step Guide For Beginners

Posted on July 3, 2025July 3, 2025 by Margaret Langworthy

If you’ve ever watched your indoor cat gaze longingly outside, you’ve probably wished they could enjoy the outdoors—without the dangers. That’s where a catio (cat patio) comes in.

Building one might seem intimidating, especially if you’re not a seasoned DIYer—but don’t worry. Whether you’re working with a backyard, balcony, or sunny window, this guide covers everything from planning and materials to building your first frame.

Let’s get started on a catio your cat will love—and you’ll feel proud to create.

Why Build A Catio?

First off, what is a catio? A catio—short for cat patio—is a safe, enclosed outdoor space designed just for cats. It lets them enjoy fresh air, sunshine, and nature without the dangers associated with free roaming. Whether it’s a small window box or a full backyard retreat, a catio blends freedom and safety, enriching your cat’s life and giving you peace of mind.

More than just a play space, catios offer the sights, sounds, and scents of the outdoors—like rustling leaves and birdsong—that keep your cat mentally and physically stimulated.

Catio Health Benefits

Encourages exercise: Climbing, jumping, and exploring promote a more active lifestyle.
Improves mobility and joint health: Regular motion helps keep muscles and joints flexible.
Alleviates boredom: A constantly changing outdoor view keeps your cat mentally stimulated.
Supports natural instincts: Watching birds, smelling plants, and feeling the breeze satisfies their hunting and sensory needs.

Step 1: Plan Your Perfect Catio

Assess Your Space

Start by thinking about your cat’s personality. Do they love watching people or cars, or are they sensitive to noise? Choose a spot where your cat will feel safe and relaxed—it’s their retreat, after all. Aim for a balance of sun and shade, and consider access: will it connect through a door, window, or tunnel? These details will help shape a catio your cat will truly enjoy.

Consider Your Cat’s Needs and Personality

Each cat is unique, so tailor the catio to their needs. Energetic cats may enjoy climbing features, while older or shy cats might prefer low, cozy, or enclosed spots. Keep their age, confidence, and activity level in mind to create a space that feels just right.

Step 2: Choose Your Catio Style

Types of Catios

When it comes to catio design, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Choosing the right style depends on your available space, your cat’s personality, and how you want them to access the outdoors. Here are three popular types to consider:

Window Box Catio: A compact option that attaches just outside a window, perfect for apartments or small spaces.
Balcony Catio: Great for upper-level homes, this type provides fresh air and views while keeping cats safe above ground.
Freestanding Structure: The most spacious and customizable style, often built in backyards with multiple levels, shelves, and lounging zones.

Step 3: Gather Materials and Tools

Recommended Materials

When it comes to building a catio, choosing the right materials is essential—using cheap or flimsy components can put your cat’s safety at risk. We recommend using weather, rot, and insect-resistant lumber, such as pressure-treated wood or naturally durable options like cedar or redwood.

For roofing, check out this in-depth guide on the best catio roofing options. We suggest using a strong, long-lasting material like polycarbonate panels or corrugated metal roofing to provide protection from the elements year-round.

When selecting your screening or fencing, keep in mind that it needs to withstand even the most determined escape artists and curious predators. Our top choice is 1×1 black PVC-coated critter fencing—not only is it visually clean and unobtrusive, but it’s also tough enough to keep out predators like coyotes, owls, hawks, and more.

Additionally, be sure to use galvanized steel screws, rust-resistant fasteners, and heavy-duty hinges and latches. These elements will help your catio stand the test of time by resisting corrosion and maintaining structural integrity through all kinds of weather. Every detail matters when building a space that’s secure, durable, and built to last.

Step 4: Build Your Catio

Before picking up a hammer, start with a plan. A basic sketch can guide your build and help prevent costly mistakes. If designing from scratch feels overwhelming, you’re not alone. Companies like Cat Topia specialize in catio design and construction, helping bring your imagination and vision to life. DIYers can also find free templates and inspiration through online communities with a little digging. Having a clear design upfront makes the entire building process smoother and more enjoyable.

With your plan and materials ready, begin by constructing a level, sturdy frame—the foundation of a safe and lasting catio. Securely attach wire mesh or fencing, checking for gaps or sharp edges, and reinforce vulnerable spots, especially in wildlife-prone areas. Finish by adding a weather-resistant roof, durable flooring like pavers or decking, and entry points such as a pet door or tunnel connecting to your home. Don’t forget a secure door for human access. Prioritize safety, comfort, and ease of maintenance at every step.

Conclusion

Building your own catio is more than just a weekend project—it’s a meaningful investment in your cat’s health, happiness, and safety. Whether you’re crafting a small window box or a spacious backyard retreat, every step you take brings your cat closer to a life full of fresh air, stimulation, and adventure—all within the safety of your home’s boundaries.

Don’t be afraid to get creative, take your time, and most importantly, enjoy the process. Your cat will thank you with every sun-drenched nap and bird-watching session. And when you’re done, we’d love to see what you create—share your build, spread the word about humane outdoor alternatives, and be sure to check with the Humane Society of Utah for more resources and inspiration.

Dangers of Foxtail Grass – Protecting Your Pets from Hidden Hazards

Posted on June 13, 2025July 2, 2025 by Guinn

Summer brings sunshine and outdoor adventures for pets, but also hidden dangers of foxtail grass. This common weed’s barbed seed awns can burrow into fur and skin, causing severe health problems.

Understanding Foxtail Grass

Foxtail grass has a bushy, spike-like seed head that resembles a fox’s tail. The grass awns, designed to burrow and plant seeds, can also burrow into a pet’s skin, causing pain and infections.

The Dangers of Foxtail Grass

Unlike typical grass blades, foxtail awns are barbed and don’t dissolve. They can penetrate a pet’s skin, eyes, ears, nose, or other openings. The barbs prevent them from backing out, allowing them to move deeper and cause serious injuries and infections. Left untreated, they can even reach internal organs and become fatal.

Symptoms of Foxtail Embedding

Be aware of signs your pet might have a foxtail awn embedded:

Persistent licking or biting at a specific area, especially paws.
Swelling, redness, or limping.
Sneezing, coughing, or nasal discharge (if inhaled).
Head shaking or ear scratching.

Collage image of three. One image is a dog's leg x-ray showing embedded foxtail. Another image is a picture of a dog's paw with swollen toes showing where the foxtail is embedded into skin. Third picture is of foxtails seeds.

Preventing Foxtail Grass Problems

The best defense is avoidance. Here’s how to protect your pet:

Yard: Remove all grasses with barbed seeds.
Leash walks: Keep your dog leashed in areas with potential foxtail grass, avoiding fields, overgrown paths, and tall, dry grass.
Regular inspections: After walks, thoroughly check your pet’s paws, ears, and between toes.
Grooming: Regularly groom and trim fur, especially around the feet, to prevent foxtails from attaching.
Protective gear: Consider dog booties or body suits for frequent walks in foxtail grass areas.

Beware of Foxtails safety tips infographics by Red and Howling.

If Your Pet is Affected

If you suspect a foxtail awn embedment, seek veterinary care immediately. Depending on the location, removal often requires sedation or surgery. Early intervention is crucial for a quick recovery and to prevent complications.

Temporary Family, Permanent Difference: Foster a Pet Today!

Posted on June 6, 2025June 6, 2025 by Maddie Cushing

Foster a pet like Samwise and make a huge difference! Foster families save lives and help homeless pets through a variety of situations.

June is National Foster a Pet Month! What does it mean to foster a pet for an animal shelter, and why is it so important? Today, we’d like to answer these questions and tell you about some special types of fosters we are in need of at the Humane Society of Utah.

Why Foster a Pet?

Fostering is opening up your home to temporarily care for a shelter pet. There are many reasons that a pet may need a foster home. A few example reasons include…

The pet is recovering from an injury or illness
They’re a baby animal who is too young to be put up for adoption
The pet is a mother dog or cat who has recently weaned a litter and needs additional time to let their milk dry up
They may have behavioral needs to work on
Some pets simply need a break from the shelter environment

Foster families play an essential role in animal welfare, providing care and support for the most vulnerable pets in our shelter. Additionally, fostering opens up more kennel space in our facility, meaning we can save even more lives!

When you foster a pet for the Humane Society of Utah, we provide all the supplies, food, and medical care your foster pet needs. All that you need to do is provide a safe and loving space for your foster animal and communicate with our team about how they’re doing.

Big Dogs, Big Hearts, Big Need!

Do you love big dogs? Do you have some extra space in your heart and home? Have you ever considered fostering? We need your help!

The number one type of pet that we need foster families for are large breed dogs. Oftentimes, these gentle giants are overlooked due to their size and spend a longer time waiting for a foster than other pets in our care. We’re here to tell you that a bigger furry friend just means more to love!

Ruger, a yellow lab and big dog in need of a foster home, poses in front of a backdrop of purple tinsel.

Slumber Paw-rty at Your Place?

Recently, we’ve discovered a need for a very special type of foster volunteer at the Humane Society of Utah. We need overnight emergency fosters for baby animals!

Lately, we’ve frequently found ourselves with baby kittens and puppies coming into our care late in the day. These cuties are too young to stay in the shelter overnight by themselves, so they need a home to land in for the night while we search for a more permanent foster for them.

Overnight emergency fostering is an excellent opportunity for short-term fostering. It’s just a night or two of commitment rather than the days to weeks that a pet may typically spend in a foster home. If you choose to become an overnight emergency foster, you’ll receive a call from HSU when baby animals come in, then you can come pick up your emergency overnight fosters for the world’s most adorable sleepover!

If you are interested specifically in overnight emergency fostering for HSU, be sure to include that in the comments section of your foster application.

Fizz, a black and white kitten too young to be adopted, is an example of an emergency overnight foster pet.

Become a Fostering Pro!

If you choose to foster a pet and want to go the extra mile, we have a few ways you can help!

Tell us all about your foster! Foster families are in a unique position to get to know a pet’s personality. Since foster pets are in a home environment, it’s often easier to get a picture of how they may behave in their adoptive homes. Not only can you help a homeless pet during their time staying with you, but through learning and sharing about your foster pet’s personality and their needs, you can help them find an adopter, too!
Create photo and video content! They say a picture is worth a thousand words, so imagine just how much a video is worth! Taking cute photos and videos of your foster pet during their stay with you and sharing that content with the shelter can really help them find a home. The content doesn’t need to be professional quality or over the top— even a cellphone pic of your foster pet snoozing on the sofa can go a long way!
Teach an old dog a new trick! By that we mean teach any pet, of any age, any new thing! Setting aside 5-10 minutes a day to work with your foster pet on a new cue or skill can really help them out once they hit the adoption floor. Do they know how to sit? How nice are their leash manners? If you’d like to help your foster pet learn a new thing, we’d be happy to help give some guidance about fear-free training techniques!

Foster a Pet: Be A Hero!

We aren’t exaggerating when we say fostering saves lives! Become a hero for homeless animals today when you sign up at utahhumane.org/foster.

June is National Microchip Month! Microchip for Peace of Mind.

Posted on May 31, 2025June 4, 2025 by Maddie Cushing

A dog sits on the grass outside with their head tilted. A microchip can help reunite guardians with a lost pet who has wandered off outdoors.

With June comes warmer weather, school break, and the beginning of summer activities. You and your pets may be spending more time adventuring in the great outdoors. But what if your beloved pet wanders off a little too far and becomes lost? A microchip could be the key to a quick reunion!

What is a Microchip?

Microchips are small implants, roughly the size of a grain of rice, that are injected into the back of a pet’s neck. The chip contains an identification number which is unique to your pet and is linked to your contact information so you can be reached if a lost pet is found.

It’s important to consider that microchips are not GPS trackers. When a chip is scanned at a veterinary office, shelter, or by an animal services officer, it brings up the pet guardian’s information. With this information, whoever has scanned the lost pet’s chip can contact the pet guardian.

For this reason, it’s very important that pet guardians ensure their pet’s microchip information is up to date. If you’ve moved or had a change in phone number or email, be sure to update your pet’s chip information to reflect that.

Why are Chips Important?

According to a study from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), lost pets with microchips are far more likely to be reunited with their guardians than lost pets without microchips. The rate of lost dogs with microchips who were returned to their families is more than double the rate of dogs without chips. The difference for cats was even more dramatic, with the rate of return with a microchip being more than triple the rate without a chip.

Microchips are a permanent form of identification for your pet. Once a chip has been implanted, it can be scanned at any time in your pet’s life. Chips work across boarders, and are even often a requirement for international travel and moves.

Studies also suggest that having your pet microchipped can help to deter pet theft. If you pet is stolen, microchips can offer proof of ownership. This makes chips a key tool in reuniting you with your furry friend, and in catching wrongdoers.

A gray, fluffy cat peers out of a window. Even indoor-only pets should have a microchip, just in case they are able to get outside and wander off.

If Your Pet has a Microchip…

That’s great news! Your pet only needs to be microchipped one time in their life. However, it is very important for pet guardians to make sure their pet’s chip information stays up to date. Updated information helps to ensure that you will be able to be contacted should your pet ever get lost.

You are able to update the contact information associated with your pet’s chip through the manufacturer’s database online. If you are unsure which manufacturer your pet’s chip is associated with, you can have the chip scanned at your veterinary office to find out.

If Your Pet doesn’t have a Microchip…

The Humane Society of Utah can help with that! Our Murray clinic offers microchipping services on a walk-in basis. For an affordable, one-time cost of $40, your pet will be protected for life!

After your microchip has been implanted, our clinic will give you an informational handout about registering your microchip online. This is a very important step in the process because this is how you attach your contact information to your pet’s chip.

The Humane Society of Utah's Murray clinic location offers microchipping services for pets on a walk-in basis.

Don’t wait to protect your pet! Have them microchipped today at our Murray clinic for a lifetime of peace of mind. Find hours of operation, pricing, and more at utahhumane.org/clinic-locations/murray-clinic.

Pet Poison Prevention: What You Need to Know

Posted on March 6, 2025April 9, 2025 by Maddie Cushing

In honor of March being National Pet Poison Prevention Month, we wanted to spotlight some of the most common poisoning hazards our pets encounter and how to keep your furry friends safe from harmful substances. Items which are harmless to humans can be hazardous to pets. It’s important to be proactive and make sure these materials are out of paw’s reach.

Keep an Eye Out for Household Hazards

There are several hazards pets may come across within the home environment. According to the ASPCA, the top toxins that caused the most issues for pets in 2023 included over-the-counter medications and human food and drinks. We’ve compiled a list of items you may have in your home that can cause problems for pets.

A graphic from the ASPCA lists off the top pet poison prevention hazards of 2023.

Kitchen

There are many items in the kitchen that, while benign for humans, are pet poison. Common foodstuffs which are toxic to animals include…

Chocolate
Grapes and Raisins
Nuts such as Macadamias, Pecans, and Walnuts
Garlic and Onions
Alcohol
Salt and excessively Salty Foods

Another common culprit in pet poisonings is Xylitol, also known as “birch sugar.” Xylitol is a sugar alternative which is often found in sugar-free foods. Even small amounts of Xylitol can be dangerous for pets, causing symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, seizures, and sometimes death. Gum, candy, toothpaste, and condiments may contain Xylitol.

Garages and Sheds

In addition, many pet poisons can often be found in storage areas such as garages and sheds. Items to be aware of comprise of…

Insecticides or Pesticides
Rodent Poisons or Baits
Antifreeze
Ice Melt
Fertilizer

If you keep the above items or similar products in these storage areas, you’ll want to make sure they are in a place your pets are unable to get to.

Garden

Gardens and yards are such pleasant places for pets to visit, especially as the weather gets nicer. However, not all plants you may find in your garden are safe for pets. Flora pet guardians should be aware of include…

Lilies
Tulips
Daffodils
Oleander
Sago Palms
Azaleas
Hyacinths
Poppies

The ASPCA has compiled a comprehensive list of plants that have been reported to pose an issue for pets. The list also includes plants that are relatively safe for pets, so pet guardians know what they can safely plant in their garden!

Restroom

Another critical area of the home for pet poison prevention are restrooms. According to the ASPCA, the number one culprit in pet poisonings in 2023 was over-the-counter medication, with prescription medication not too far behind. Make sure these items are stowed away safely in a cupboard or medicine cabinet where pets are unable to reach them.

Additional hazards for pets in restrooms include…

Any and all cleaning products
Toothpaste and mouthwash
Vitamins and supplements
Essential oils, perfumes, and colognes
Laundry detergents and bleach
Other cosmetic products, such as lotion

A tabby cat sniffs the inside of a full grocery bag. The kitchen is often a hub for hazards which need pet poison prevention measures to be taken.

Steps You Can Take Towards Pet Poison Prevention

The number one thing pet guardians can do to protect their furry friends from poisoning is to pet-proof the home. Though it may seem like a daunting task, putting in a little effort to ensure each area of the home is safe for your pets leads to a huge return on investment!

Additionally, supervising pets or setting up a safe room or area (such as a crate) that they can occupy while you are unable to watch them is key to pet poison prevention.

In case of emergency, we recommend having the phone numbers of both your emergency veterinarian and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on hand. If you believe your pet has accessed something toxic, please contact one of these resources immediately.

Lending a Paw: HSU Helps Community Cats from Payson, UT

Posted on February 28, 2025April 9, 2025 by Maddie Cushing

In early 2025, the Humane Society of Utah was informed of a dire situation concerning community cats in Payson, UT. Community cats are unowned, sometimes feral, cats who live outdoors. Residents of Payson reported a shocking number of unfixed cats living in the area, with more arriving continuously. Though the neighborhood was inundated with cats, there were no TNR (trap, neuter, return) resources available locally. Aided by donor support, the Humane Society of Utah jumped into action.

Two community cats in Payson, UT are curled up together on a striped piece of outdoor furniture

A Community in Distress

As the population of community cats in Payson continued to increase, residents expressed concern that genetic defects were manifesting in the younger population of cats. Many of the new kittens suffered from Manx syndrome, a condition affecting the spinal cord. Cats with Manx syndrome can experience incontenence, mobility issues, and in some cases, full paralysis of the back legs. Additionally, many of the cats were suffering from parasites, eye infections, and upper respiratory issues.

Although local individuals and shelters were caring for many of the sick cats and kittens, they were fighting an uphill battle. Payson had no way to address the root issue— the continued overpopulation of cats.

The cats in Payson were in need of a TNR (trap, neuter, return) program. TNR programs spay or neuter and vaccinate community cats. These programs both protect cats from disease and stop cats from being able to reproduce. TNR services are vital for controlling community cat populations and preventing new litters from being born into areas that are already overrun, where cats will have to compete for fewer resources.

This is where HSU, and our wonderful donors, were able to step in and help out!

A community cat and kitten in Payson, UT are curled up next to each other inside the home of one of the local fosters who is nursing the cats back to health.

Community Cats Receive a Helping Paw

In early February, over 30 community cats from Payson received TNR services at the Humane Society of Utah’s Murray clinic. The cats arrived in three groups over three days, and our clinic staff and veterinarians worked tirelessly to help them. Afterward, the cats were able to return to their preferred habitat, safer and healthier than before!

However, the real heroes in this story are our donors, without whom none of this would have been possible! Thanks to you, existing cats in this area are now better protected from maladies and disease. We also expect to see a sharp decline in kittens born with dangerous and painful conditions. Through your support, you are creating a healthier environment for these community cats, as well as the people living in Payson. We are so grateful to our caring donors for extending a helping hand when their neighbors needed support!

If you would like to learn more about our work with Payson, UT, and the TNR process, you can find a video here. You can also learn about HSU’s TNR program, CATNIP, here.

Humane Society of Utah to Distribute 100 Cat Spay/Neuter Vouchers on World Spay Day

Posted on February 24, 2025February 24, 2025 by Shae

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Feb. 24, 2025
Media Alert
Humane Society of Utah to Distribute 100 Cat Spay/Neuter Vouchers on World Spay Day

WHO:

The Humane Society of Utah (HSU)

WHAT:

In celebration of World Spay Day, HSU is distributing 100 spay/neuter vouchers for cat owners. Each voucher provides a $100 discount on a spay/neuter procedure and includes a free FVRCP vaccination and booster, made possible by Petco Love Foundation.

WHEN:

Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2025, starting at 8 a.m. (while supplies last)

WHERE:

Humane Society of Utah Murray Clinic

4242 South 300 West, Murray, UT

Murray, Utah, Feb. 25, 2025—The Humane Society of Utah (HSU) welcomes the media to attend and report on its World Spay Day event. HSU will distribute one hundred $50 cat spay vouchers. These vouchers will provide community members with a $100 discount off regularly priced producers. Vouchers will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 8 a.m. at the Murray clinic.

Voucher recipients must present their voucher at check-in to receive the $100 discount on a cat spay/neuter procedure. An appointment is required, and all cats must be at least 16 weeks old and up to date on their FVRCP vaccination to qualify for surgery. Cat owners may also use the vouchers for neuter procedures. Thanks to the generosity of Petco Love Foundation, voucher recipients will also receive a free FVRCP vaccination and booster at the time of surgery.

“Spaying and neutering is one of the most effective ways to reduce pet overpopulation and ease the burden on animal shelters,” said Guinnevere Shuster, director of marketing and communications at the Humane Society of Utah. “By preventing unwanted litters, we can ensure that more resources are available for pets already in shelters, giving them a better chance at finding loving homes.”

Vouchers are limited to one per household and expire on Dec. 31, 2025. World Spay Day, an annual campaign by the Humane Society of the United States, highlights the importance of spaying and neutering pets to reduce pet overpopulation.

Suggested Tweet: 🐱💙 In honor of #WorldSpayDay, @UtahHumane is giving away 100 cat spay/neuter vouchers ($100 discount) starting at 8 a.m. on Feb. 25! First come, first served at 4242 South 300 W in Murray. Plus, get a free FVRCP vaccine and booster, thanks to @PetcoLove.

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About the Humane Society of Utah

The Humane Society of Utah is dedicated to the elimination of pain, fear, and suffering in all animals. Since 1960, the Humane Society of Utah has been sheltering homeless animals, fighting cruelty and neglect, and creating an atmosphere of respect, responsibility, and compassion for all animals. As the largest private animal resource center in the state, the Humane Society of Utah welcomes any companion animal that can legally be admitted. We work hard to ensure that every healthy and treatable pet that enters the facility will be placed into a loving home. The Humane Society of Utah is a local, independent 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization that does not receive any state or government funding and is not a branch of any national organization. It is funded by the contributions of individuals, businesses, and foundations. Read more online at www.utahhumane.org.

4242 South 300 West, Murray, UT 84107 / 801-261-2919 / UtahHumane.org / @utahhumane

Last Litter: An Important (and Adorable!) Community Resource

Posted on February 20, 2025April 9, 2025 by Maddie Cushing

Have you heard of the Humane Society of Utah’s Last Litter program? This program was designed for pet guardians who need help getting their mother pet spayed and rehoming her final litter of puppies or kittens.

A Last Litter kitten peers out from inside a blanket fort. Only their eyes and nose are visible.

The Origins of Last Litter

HSU created the Last Litter program in 2021 after seeing an influx of kittens in the community. The program was later opened to puppies in 2023.

“We started our Last Litter program out of a deep respect for mama cats and dogs and the people who love them, but who were unable to access spay services to prevent unintentional breeding,” said Juli Ulvestad, HSU’s Pet Resource Center Director.

“The benefit we hadn’t planned on is that the program has drawn litters of puppies and kittens to HSU who otherwise may have been given away without vaccination or spay/neuter themselves, so their guardian can take advantage of the free spay for mama. This means those puppies and kittens won’t ever have an accidental litter themselves and increases the impact of this program exponentially.”

Two kittens pose against a white backdrop promoting Last Litter. One cat is tortoiseshell, and the other is a brown tabby.

How It Works

The first step for pet guardians signing up for Last Litter is to fill out an application on our website. A $30 deposit towards the $100 intake fee is required to hold an appointment. Program requirements to be aware of include…

Kittens in a qualifying litter must be between 2 and 5 months old and weigh at least 2 lbs.
Puppies in a qualifying litter must be between 2 and 4 months old and weigh at least 2 lbs.
The mother pet must be sufficiently healthy for surgery and safely handleable for staff
Qualifying pets must be owned pets rather than stray or community pets

On the morning of the Last Litter appointment, pet guardians drop their mother pet off at our clinic for her spay procedure. In the afternoon, pet guardians should bring her last litter to our Admissions Department for intake into HSU’s care. Then, mama can go home with her human family, and her puppies or kittens will be prepped for adoption!

Although Last Litter is for owned pets, The Humane Society of Utah also has options for community cat caregivers. CATNIP is HSU’s TNR (trap, neuter, return) program, created to serve free-roaming cats in the area. You can learn more about CATNIP and schedule an appointment on our website.

“We wanted to figure out a way to address overpopulation concerns while providing services for the mother pet and current litter,” said Amber Henry, HSU’s Senior Manager of Admissions and Pet Resources. “Last Litter has continued to grow year to year, and we are excited with how popular it has been!”

The Importance of Cat Enrichment

Posted on February 13, 2025February 13, 2025 by Margaret Langworthy

As cat owners, we all want our feline friends to be happy, healthy, and comfortable in their home. Luckily, there are many ways to enhance the lives of indoor cats through enrichment activities that keep them engaged, active, and at ease in their surroundings. Whether you’re introducing a newly adopted cat to your home or looking to add excitement for a long-term companion, these tips will help bring variety and joy to their daily lives, giving them a taste of the adventure they naturally crave.

The Dangers of Boredom and Lack of Enrichment in Cats

Mental Impacts:

A lack of enrichment can lead to significant mental health issues for cats, impacting their mood and overall behavior. Without proper stimulation, cats may experience problems like:

Depression: Marked by a loss of interest in play and social interaction.
Anxiety: Often seen through excessive grooming, hiding, or clingy behavior.
Boredom: Leads to restless behavior, such as pacing or vocalizing more than usual.
Aggression: Frustration from lack of activity can cause irritability and aggression toward people or other pets.

To recognize if your cat is under-stimulated, watch for signs like excessive sleeping, lethargy, or destructive behaviors such as scratching furniture or knocking things over. These behaviors often indicate they need more mental and physical engagement in their environment.

Physical Impacts:

Without sufficient activity, cats are at risk for physical health issues that can significantly impact their quality of life, including:

Obesity: Often a result of inactivity and overeating, leading to joint stress and other health concerns.
Diabetes: Reduced activity and weight gain can increase the risk of insulin resistance.
Muscle Weakness: Lack of exercise can cause muscle loss and reduced mobility.

To spot signs of physical decline, watch for noticeable weight gain, reduced movement, or a lack of energy during playtime. As a guardian, it’s essential to monitor these signs closely to ensure your cat maintains a healthy, active lifestyle.

6 Easy Ways to Enrich Your Cat’s Life

Interactive Playtime
Daily play is essential for cats. Use feather wands or battery-operated toys that mimic prey to promote exercise, mental stimulation, and bonding.
Food Puzzles & Treat Dispensers
Engage your cat’s natural hunting instincts with puzzle feeders or treat-dispensing toys. These encourage problem-solving and help prevent overeating.
Rotating Toys
Cats love novelty! Keep playtime fresh by rotating toys regularly to prevent boredom and maintain interest.
Scratching Posts & Climbing Furniture
Provide scratching posts, cat trees, and wall-mounted shelves to satisfy climbing and scratching urges—saving your furniture in the process.
Window Perches & Bird-Watching Stations
A window perch offers sunlight and a safe outdoor view, making bird-watching a mentally enriching activity for your cat.
Catio: The Ultimate Enrichment Solution
A catio (cat patio) lets cats safely experience the outdoors. These enclosed spaces encourage climbing, scratching, and exploration while promoting mental and physical well-being.

Enrichment’s Role in Helping Cats Adjust to New Homes

We all want our cats to feel safe and comfortable, especially those adopted from shelters or rescued from challenging situations. Cats may sometimes struggle to adjust to a new environment, but with the right enrichment activities and practices in place, you can help your new cat feel more at ease. Enrichment can bridge the gap between you and your cat by creating a stress-free environment that offers ample stimulation and fosters a lasting bond.

Why Enrichment is More Than Playtime

Finding the balance for each of our cats’ unique needs can be challenging. Enrichment is vital to our cats’ overall well-being. Arguably, it can be the difference between a cat simply surviving versus thriving. A well-enriched environment allows cats to engage in their natural behaviors, improves their mental health and physical health, and prevents boredom that could lead to behavioral problems. Interactive play, scratching pads, or even a catio, are excellent ways to significantly improve your cat’s life. An enriched cat is a healthy, happy, and fulfilled cat.

Adopt a Senior Pet: They May Be Your Perfect Fit!

Posted on November 1, 2024November 1, 2024 by Maddie Cushing

November is Adopt a Senior Pet Month, and we wholeheartedly believe that our furry friends age like fine wine! So, we’ve come up with just a few reasons why adopting a senior pet may be your perfect fit.

Kito, an adoptable senior pet at the Humane Society of Utah, lies on a bed and looks into the camera.

1. You Can Bet on Senior Pets!

When you adopt a senior pet, what you see is often what you get! When it comes to older pets, you already have basic information like their adult size, whether they’ll need to be groomed, and even elements of their purr-sonality!

2. Oodles of Training? Not When You Adopt a Senior Pet!

Want to avoid the dreaded potty training stage? Adopting a senior pet can, more often than not, help you do that! It’s not just that, either: many senior pets come with a myriad of manners ready to go! Whether you’re looking for a pup who walks nicely on a leash or a kitty who doesn’t scratch up the furniture, a senior pet could very well fit the bill.

That said, it’s important to keep in mind that there may be an adjustment period while your furry friend gets used to their new home. We go by the rule of threes at the Humane Society of Utah, which you can learn more about here!

3. Old Dogs CAN Learn New Tricks!

We’ve all heard the old adage, but it couldn’t be further from the truth! If there’s a new cue that you’d like your pet to learn, don’t count a senior pet out. Seniors tend to have a greater attention span than a puppy or kitten, which means they often pick up cues even faster than their younger counterparts.

4. Plenty of Loving Years Ahead of You

Just because an animal has reached senior status doesn’t mean their golden years will be short-lived! Cats, in particular, routinely live into their late teens or early twenties, signifying that you could easily have a decade or more left together when you adopt a senior pet. Just make sure to keep up on vet visits and be sure your furry friend has the proper care for a good, long life.

5. Save a Life… And Your Wallet!

Many animal welfare organizations offer discounts, or even entirely waive, adoption fees for senior pets. This means you can rescue a new best friend without breaking the bank! At the Humane Society of Utah, our senior pets are “Name Your Own Price,” meaning adopters can choose what they’d like to contribute towards their furry family member’s adoption fee.

Bentley, an adoptable senior pet at the Humane Society of Utah, lounges in some grass and looks at the camera.

They say that the best friends are old friends! Adopt a senior pet today from the Humane Society of Utah and find out firsthand just how true that is!

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