Purrfect Picks: The Best Cat-Friendly Plants for Your Outdoor Catio in the UK
- Christina Neate
- Aug 21
- 3 min read
Creating a catio—a safe outdoor space for your feline friend—can be a fun and fulfilling project. Not only does it provide your cat with fresh air and stimulation, but it also lets you add beautiful plants that are safe for them. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best cat-friendly plants to consider for your outdoor catio in the UK, ensuring both your cat’s safety and your garden's beauty.
Why Choose Cat-Friendly Plants?
When designing your catio, it’s vital to select plants that won’t harm your cat if they nibble on them. In fact, a survey conducted by the Cats Protection found that around 60% of Uk Adults are unaware that lilies are fatal to cats, highlighting a widespread lack of knowledge about toxic plants for pets! Common garden plants can be toxic! Daffodils, Sweet Pea, Hydrangeas Chrysanthemum and Delphiniums are all toxic to cats leading to serious health issues if digested.
By opting for cat-friendly plants, you can create a vibrant and safe environment for your pet to explore.
Additionally, these plants below are safe and can enhance your catio's appearance, adding a lush backdrop for your cat’s outdoor adventures. It's a win-win!
1. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Catnip is a classic choice for any cat-friendly garden. This herb is known for stimulating playful behaviour in cats, making it essential for your catio.
Benefits of Catnip
Stimulates Playfulness: According to a study, about 50-75% of cats respond to catnip, rolling around and playing, making it an instant favorite.
Easy to Grow: Catnip thrives in well-drained soil and can be easily grown in pots or directly in the ground.
2. Cat Grass (Dactylis glomerata)
Cat grass, a mix of grasses like wheat, oat, and barley, makes a great addition to your catio. It’s safe for cats to chew on and aids in digestion.
Benefits of Cat Grass
Digestive Aid: Helps control hairballs and supports digestion, similar to the benefits seen in a study of cats eating grass regularly.
Nutritional Value: Provides essential vitamins and minerals, helping maintain your cat’s health.
Maine coon cat sitting by pots of Cat grass in Catio built by Custom Pet Enclosures.
3. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Boston ferns can add a tropical touch to your catio. They are non-toxic to cats and flourish in shady spots.
Benefits of Boston Fern
Humidity Lover: Ideal for humid environments that many cats enjoy; they may help keep your cat comfy during warmer months.
Aesthetic Appeal: Adds a soft, lush look to your outdoor space, creating a serene atmosphere.
4. Bamboo (Bambusoideae)
Bamboo is a fantastic choice for a natural barrier or privacy screen in your catio. It's safe for cats and can grow tall, providing an adventurous space for your feline. ( although safe Bamboo must not be eaten in large amounts as it can cause stomach upsets in cats so caution is advised )
Benefits of Bamboo
Fast-Growing: Can establish itself within a year, creating an attractive green wall for your catio.
Durable: Provides a solid structure for climbing and exploring, appealing to your cat's natural instincts.
Tips for Planting in Your Catio
Choose the Right Location: Ensure your plants get enough sunlight while also providing shaded spots for your cat to relax.
Use Non-Toxic Soil: Opt for organic soil and fertilisers to keep both plants and pets safe.
Regular Maintenance: Trim dead leaves and keep your plants healthy to ensure a vibrant space for your kitty.
Although we suggest these plants suitable to plant in your catio we also advise its best to try and avoid letting your cats eat these plants where possible.
Creating a Happy Cat Paradise
Designing a cat-friendly outdoor catio in the UK is a rewarding project that significantly enhances your cat’s quality of life. By choosing the right plants, you can create a safe, stimulating, and beautiful environment for your feline friend.
From stimulating catnip to Bamboo, the options are abundant. You can design a space that is enjoyable for your cat and visually appealing for you. So, roll up your sleeves, start planting, and watch your cat thrive in their outdoor haven!
Happy gardening! From Custom Pet Enclosures.
For a more in depth look at plants that are safe and plants that are toxic for cats,
The Cats Protection has put together this great little guide which is very informative.
