Living with cats: Why your small apartment might not be enough

Taking care of a cat is straightforward. Just provide appropriate food, access to fresh water, a clean litter box, and a few toys to keep it happy.

For this reason, many people decide to adopt a furry friend. Few realise that cats, like dogs, need space to play. If they do not have it, they may vent their frustration.

A cat does not take up much space. Depending on its gender and breed, it should weigh from 3 to 5 kilograms. The exception is Maine Coons, which can reach up to a metre in length and weigh from 8 to 10 kilograms.

Despite their small size, they need space to unleash their hunting instincts. It is in their nature. Specialists say one cat should have 7 to 10 square metres of free space.

The arrangement of the interior is also necessary. The apartment should have high and low furniture that the cat can climb on. The animal needs many observation points and numerous hiding places, such as a cardboard box house.

Although a cat can quickly adapt to living in a spacious studio apartment, it is essential to remember that the litter box and food bowls should be far apart. If they are not, the cat may stop eating, using the litter box, or doing its business outside of it.

However, if a cat starts destroying furniture, scratching walls, knocking over objects, or becomes lethargic for unknown reasons, even though there are no signs of illness, it is a sign that it might have too little space. In such a case, the space needs to be rearranged a bit.

It is worth looking for a tall scratching post equipped with unique hiding places. This will provide it with another point of orientation and additional shelter. Don’t have much space? Special hammocks that can be mounted on windows or furniture will be helpful. Place them in several different spots in the home, at various heights, to diversify its play and rest.