You may have recently encountered the term "Cat-Proofing," but it's not new. Companies like ProtectaPet have been cat-proofing gardens all over the UK for the past 10 years. A study conducted by the University of Lincoln even examined whether this concept is better for cats. So, what exactly is cat-proofing, and why is it gaining popularity?
Cat-proofing refers to domestic cat containment and can be achieved in various ways. The most popular methods include Cat Fence Barriers, Cat Enclosures, Cat Balcony Enclosures, and Catios. These solutions are designed to keep cats within a controlled outdoor space, away from dangers such as traffic, toxic plants, and other wildlife—some of the leading causes of cat deaths.
Why Keep Cats Contained?
This concept has sparked debate, especially on social media, about whether it's right to contain a cat in the garden. Many people envision pet cats as free-roaming creatures that come and go as they please. However, numerous cat breeds are kept housebound for various reasons:
- Traffic Accidents: Outdoor cats are at risk of being hit by vehicles.
- Predators: Cats can fall prey to larger animals such as dogs and birds of prey.
- Toxins and Poisons: Outdoor cats can encounter toxic substances, including antifreeze, pesticides, and poisonous plants.
- Injury and Illness: Fights with other animals can lead to injuries and infections.
- Parasites: They are at a higher risk of acquiring external parasites like fleas and ticks and internal parasites like worms.
- Diet and Nutrition: Indoor cats have controlled diets, whereas outdoor cats might consume harmful substances.
- Wildlife Impact: Cats are natural hunters and can significantly impact local wildlife populations, especially birds and small mammals.
- Territorial Fights: Outdoor cats often get into territorial disputes with other cats.
- Human Interaction: Cats may get lost, stolen, or harmed by people who dislike them or are not familiar with them.
Enter ProtectaPet
Cat owners searching for a solution to keep their beloved pets safe have found ProtectaPet, which allows cats to enjoy enriched outdoor freedom while being contained and unable to escape.
ProtectaPet was founded in 2014 by Simon and Eve Davies after losing one of their farm cats, Lola, to a road traffic accident. Devastated, Simon devised a solution to keep Lola’s brother, Leo, safe and developed ProtectaPet’s first Cat Fence Barrier system. Over the years, the company has developed many products and earned several industry awards, including the Cat Friendly award from iCatCare and the King’s Award for Innovation.
Raising Awareness
Unfortunately, many cat owners only discover ProtectaPet or cat-proofing after their beloved cat has suffered a misfortune. To prevent cats from being harmed—or worse—and to protect wildlife, ProtectaPet is making a new effort to boost awareness of their solutions!
Cat-proofing is not just about keeping cats safe, it's also about providing cats with an enriched space to better their physical and mental health and to lessen the harm to wildlife in their native habitat. ProtectaPet is leading the way, offering a premium solution and educating for increased welfare for cats.
