Catification: Your Cats Need You to Read This Right Now
If you happen to live with a cat (remember, no one owns a cat, we only live with them as trusty servants), read on the learn all about the science and art of catification.
Catification is a term popularized by Jackson Galaxy, who is a cat behaviorist and the host of the Animal Planet network’s show called “My Cat From Hell.” He’s also the author of “Catification: Designing a Happy and Stylish Home for Your Cat (and You!),” published in 2014, and “Catify to Satisfy: Simple Solutions for Creating a Cat-Friendly Home”, which came out in 2015.
So what exactly is catification? According to Jackson, it’s about creating a feline-friendly environment catering to a cat’s natural instincts. Examples include creating opportunities for your cat to climb, perch, play, rest, and to feel like they have their own space. The approach posits that it’s not enough to just have a cat in your home, but you must provide them the type of space that also appeals to them. As humans, we want a comfortable space that fulfills our needs, and our furry roommates deserve the same courtesy. Catifying your space will not only make your cat happier and secure, but it can also nip a lot of problems in the bud–like unwanted behaviors.
Catifying your space doesn’t mean that you must sacrifice your style and design aesthetic either. Instead, it’s about bringing balance between human and feline spaces. For example, if you do not provide your indoor cat with a place to scratch their claws, they will use the sofa, your windowsill, or some other undesirable place. If you provide your cat with a scratching post or pad, either buying or making your own, your cat will be able to satisfy their natural need to shed their claws, and your furniture won’t get destroyed. And there are lot of other ways you can catify your space through DIY projects for cat toys, houses, perches, hammocks, and more.
Through catification you can not only protect your furniture, provide your cat with a more satisfying and stimulating environment, but also strengthen your bond with your cat. A happy cat is a one who is more likely to cuddle, play, and just generally be a better companion.
If you would like to learn more about catification, you should check out Jackson’s books, TV show, and his website.
Related on Organic Authority
19 DIY Projects for Cats and the Crafty People Who Love Them
9 Cat Furniture Solutions You and Your Cat Can Love
5 Tips for a Happy Cat: Build a Better Bond with Your Furry Friend
Image: Cat Sitting on a Windowsill via Shutterstock
