The Importance of Vertical Spaces

While we remember to provide basic needs for our pets like food, water, and shelter, one aspect that is sometimes overlooked is the importance of vertical spaces for cats. Understanding why cats need vertical spaces and how having access to them benefits their overall health and well-being is crucial for cat owners. 

Cats are predators by nature, obligate carnivores who need to hunt for their meals. Wildcats are skilled climbers and pouncers who are adept at navigating various climates and terrains including mountains, forests, and deserts. Likewise, domestic cats have a strong inclination toward climbing, jumping, and exploring elevated spaces. 

By climbing up and perching in elevated areas, cats can survey their surroundings, get an overall view of their surroundings, establish a sense of control over their territory, and feel safe from predators. This can reduce stress levels, especially in multi-pet households or during parties when there are unfamiliar people in the home.

Vertical spaces also serve as escape routes and safe spaces for cats. When faced with perceived threats or stressful situations, - like dogs or strangers in the home -  cats instinctively seek higher ground to assess the situation from a safe vantage point and avoid potential danger.

Vertical spaces can provide cats with physical exercise and mental stimulation that help to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity-related issues. Climbing, scratching, playing, and jumping on vertical spaces helps cats to satisfy their curiosity and stay mentally engaged while preventing boredom and behavioral issues. These are natural cat behaviors that cats need in order to thrive, just like their wildcat relatives.

Here are a few examples of vertical spaces that your cat will love and appreciate:

Cat Trees: Multi-level cat trees with scratching posts and cubbies are a must. Place them near a window so your cat can look out and survey their surroundings.

Wall-Mounted Shelves: Install wall-mounted shelves at varying heights to create vertical pathways and resting spots for your cat. Your cat may become very adept at running and jumping from shelf to shelf. They can be great exercise as well as observation points.

Window Perches: Window perches allow cats to bask in the sunlight and comfortably monitor what’s going on outside. 

Sisal Posts: You can also install floor to ceiling sisal posts that your cat can climb. Place them near a cat shelf or two so your cat can relax way up high.

Vertical spaces are essential elements of a cat-friendly home. Climbing, perching, and exploring elevated spaces are fundamental to cats’ physical and mental well-being. Incorporating vertical spaces into your home gives your cat a stimulating and enriching environment that supports their natural feline behaviors and promotes their overall well-being.