September 12, 2024, 3:23 pm | Read time: 7 minutes
In the city, many cats are kept purely as indoor pets, as some owners prefer their animals not to be exposed to the hectic maze of streets. However, indoor cats do not have to do without outdoor access – a secure and varied balcony can also keep them busy and occupied.
Cats cherish their freedom and enjoy exploring their territory. They like to lie in wait but can also doze for hours in the sun or a shady spot. They also like to sniff and nibble on plants and herbs. However, choosing to keep your cat on a secure balcony can offer significant benefits for your pet for various reasons. As a rule, even a small city balcony is enough to satisfy our cats. We’ll guide you through the essential considerations for setting up a cat-proof balcony.
What speaks for secure outdoor access on the balcony
Many owners grapple with the decision of whether to allow their pets outdoor access. This hesitation stems from several valid concerns. Among other things, a cat that is allowed to run free can prey on small animals in the area and bring them home in the form of mice and small birds.
The risks posed to free-roaming cats by busy roads are also significant and should not be overlooked. Careless drivers or cyclists sometimes cause fatal accidents, which is why the average lifespan of outdoor cats is much shorter than that of indoor cats.
These dangers for the animal itself and the protection of the species do not arise with secure outdoor access on a balcony or terrace. Creating a stimulating yet safe environment in these areas can be an excellent alternative to traditional outdoor access.
How to make a balcony cat-proof
However, before you go straight to the DIY store or the nearest pet store and buy furniture for your balcony, you first need to make it cat-proof. Despite the adage that cats have “nine lives” and may survive a fall from a low height, it’s prudent to err on the side of caution and install a cat net. Of course, the net must always be stretched to a sufficient height so the cat cannot jump over it. If you opt for a “do-it-yourself” model, the mesh size should not be larger than three to four centimeters so that the animal cannot fit through it.
Even if the cat lands unharmed, it could run into the street in panic. Therefore, a selection of cat nets is available in specialist shops, but you can also commission companies to install a permanent, fixed version. However, be aware: If you plan to make structural changes to a rental property or drill into the façade, you must obtain the landlord’s consent.
In addition to the permanently installed nets, various other cat nets can be attached to balcony parapets or walls with threads and can also be removed again if you move house. Nets that are attached to poles with cable ties are usually available for little money. The cost increases if you opt for bite-proof nets. This may be because the cat likes to nibble or scratch at the net, or you simply want additional protection.
There are also different colors of balcony nets for cats, including olive green, transparent, and metallic. The choice of color is entirely a matter of personal preference. While darker nets might be less visually appealing, they are more visible to birds, reducing the risk of entanglement and proximity to our predatory felines.
Which furnishings and decorative items belong on a cat-proof balcony?
Water bowls and fountains
Cats should be able to drink water in a sheltered place on the balcony in both summer and winter. Water in a bowl should also be changed daily. However, some four-legged friends love running water and prefer the cool water from small fountains. Both can also be a small playground if, for example, small objects are draped in them for fishing.
Exercise caution with standing water: many cats are prone to drinking from plant saucers. Therefore, avoiding using fertilizer and draining any excess water is essential.
Cat flap
A cat flap in the balcony door is a practical addition for cats who enjoy welcoming the sunrise outdoors. However, you should check the feasibility of this in advance. Especially in a rented apartment, you may have to agree with the landlord whether this is feasible. If in doubt, you may have to get a suitable balcony door with a pre-installed flap or have a specialist company install it in the glass. Regardless, your cat will surely appreciate this additional freedom.
Chill-out spot
Cats relish the opportunity to snooze for hours on plush cushions. To shield them from sunstroke on the balcony, you can drape cloths for sun protection and position cushions and baskets in shaded areas beneath bushes or an umbrella.
Outdoor furniture for cats
A wide range of cat furniture is made of special, weatherproof material, such as scratching posts, cat caves, and climbing trees. These can be seamlessly integrated into your balcony decor and often boast an elegant rattan appearance. Many also offer great viewing areas so that the cat has everything in view.1
Birdhouse
A birdhouse of this sort offers pure ‘cat cinema,’ providing endless hours of entertainment. Of course, it must be installed in such a way that the cat can never get hold of a bird, even with a daring leap.
Non-toxic plants for a safe cat balcony
A balcony brimming with blooming flowers is a delightful sight for humans and a source of enjoyment for cats as well. However, many plants could make cats ill or even poison them if they nibble on them. We have therefore compiled a list below of flowers, plants, and herbs that pose no danger to them.
Please note that this list is not comprehensive. If you are unsure whether a plant has poisonous properties for cats, you should check with your local hardware store before you buy it or research the plant’s Latin name and its specific characteristics on the Internet.
Non-toxic flowers and plants (a selection)
- Pansies
- Daisies
- Petunias
- Nasturtium
- Sunflowers
- Orange and lemon trees
- Carnation
- Dahlias
- Blue lizards
- Fuchsias
- Slipper flower
- Money tree
- Bluebell
- Cockscomb
- Jasmine
- Camellias
- Cat germander
- Girl’s eyes
- Marigolds
- Hibiscus
- Sunflowers
- Cat grass
- Roses (only suitable to a limited extent due to risk of injury)
Non-toxic herbs and culinary herbs (a selection)
- Lavender
- Valerian
- Lemon balm
- Thyme
- Basil
- Dill
- Chervil
- Mint
- Catnip
- Marjoram
- Sage
- Parsley (small amounts)
Which plants and herbs are poisonous to cats and do not belong on the cat balcony?
The list of plants allowed on a cat-safe balcony is almost as long as those that should not be planted there. Cats are attracted by scents and like to nibble on greenery, but some can cause serious harm to pets. This list is also only a selection of popular plants and is not exhaustive.
Please note: There are contradictory results, especially with geraniums. On the one hand, they are considered poisonous to rodents. Whether this is also the case for cats has not yet been sufficiently researched. For safety’s sake, it’s best to either avoid purchasing them or to plant them in a hanging basket out of your cat’s reach on the balcony.
Poisonous flowers and plants (a selection)
- Cyclamen
- Amaryllis
- Azaleas
- Begonias
- Clematis
- Ivy
- Lilies
- Daffodils
- Tulips
- Orchids
- Cycad
- Monkshood
- Primroses
- Lantana
- Crocuses
- Hydrangeas
- Vanilla flowers
- Christmas roses
- Oleander
- Poinsettia
- Angel trumpet
- Hyacinths
- African violets
- Bromeliads
- Sweet peas
Poisonous herbs and culinary herbs (a selection)
- Anise
- Fennel
- Caraway seeds
- mugwort
- Wormwood
- Centaury
- Chives and wild garlic (in larger quantities)2
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Conclusion
A well-designed cat balcony provides every urban feline with ample opportunities for play, fun, and entertainment. And perhaps there’s even a cozy corner left for the cat owner to unwind.