Cat Trees And Animal Health

I'm a dog person. I grew up with large dogs including Labrador retrievers, huskies, Saint Bernards and Anatolian Shepherds. I love the way large dogs roam an area, protecting their turf. They're big and lumbering, full of love and play.

As much as I like these dogs, I dislike cats. To me, cats seem needy and moody, temperamental and vindictive. I don't care for the way they can take over a space or insist on getting your attention until you feel forced to give it.

It wasn't until a recent visit to a large animal shelter that I began to look at cats a little differently.

In a neighboring town there's a large shelter facility. I believe they have a contract with the city to also serve as animal control. At any rate, the facility is equipped with wings to house dogs large and small. They also have cat rooms where the more docile cats can co-exist together, and a viewing room full of caged cats for those that need to be in their own space. My guide was well versed in animal behavior and even introduced me to their on-staff behaviorist who has spent years training birds, dolphins, cats and dogs.

I learned that cats need mental and physical stimulation as much as any human. Items like cat trees give cats an opportunity to change their surroundings and see things differently. They can climb up cat trees and look down, hide in the enclosures as though stalking prey. They can use the sisal-wrapped posts as a place to scratch their nails. Cat trees are one way that shelter cats can get the physical stimulation necessary to keep them in good health (loose limbs, trim weight, etc.) but also the physical stimulation necessary to ward off bad behavior.

Cat Trees

Here is a great way to make some extra money! Construct cat trees, cat furniture and scratching posts. What a great way to show off your creativity and make some extra money to spend on your furry feline friend.

With a few simple tool and basic supplies cat furniture can be made for a fraction of the regular retail price and only limited by your imagination. To start browse your local pet supply shop or the internet for ideas. If you are constructing anything for your own cats enjoyment watch what he/she likes to do. Look out the window, take a sun nap or destroy the couch! Design a cat tree high enough to watch all those birds fly by, stretch out in the sun and enough scratching posts to walk right by the couch. Tailor made cat products are the best!

Once you have made a few of these you will see how easy it is to incorporate different designs. From your examples you will notice the more elaborate the design, the higher the cost. Do not go crazy with the four story, double condo, with his and her baths! It's best to remember that when customers are shopping for cat trees, space is the biggest consideration. If it will not fit their needs they will most likely not purchase it.

Start small with basic scratching posts and smaller cat trees. Set up a booth at a flea market to show off your cat tree business. This is a great way to get started. There is one thing cat lovers enjoy talking about is their cats! Strike up conversations with cat owners. Everyone has a funny cat story. Bring a few samples of your product. Make a portfolio of different cat trees and cat gyms offered. That way you will not end up with a basement full of cat furniture! Attend cat shows, post flyers, ask your customers for referrals. Work with local veterinarians to set up a sample in their offices. Go where the cats are.