Your cat is a member of the family, so it only makes sense that you'd want them to feel comfortable and welcome in your home. And, since September is Happy Cat Month, there has never been a better time to customize your living space for your cat's comfort. Don't worry; we're not talking about knocking down walls or finishing your basement. Our real estate agents are excited to share simple, easy-to-follow tips for a more cat-friendly home.

• Add a Cozy Basket
  Cats like to be nestled in when they sleep. While plenty of cat beds are made with this shape, you can also make your own using an oval or round basket. Pick a basket that suits the style of your room, and place a soft blanket inside. Set your basket up in a corner of the room, and it won't be long until your kitty finds it. You could add a bow or ribbon to the basket to match your decor.
  
  
• Sweep Floors Daily
  Cats shed, and their hair accumulates in corners and along the edges of rooms. Cats don't love living with furry floors any more than you do. Luckily, their hair is easy to keep contained if you do a quick sweep every day. A broom will work, but for even better results, consider a robot vacuum. Schedule it to run daily so your floors are always free of cat hair and other debris.
  
  
• Make Sure Windows Have Screens
  If you're in a new home, check that all windows have screens before you open any of them. You wouldn't want your kitty to escape. Resist the urge to crack a window without a screen, as cats can squeeze through tiny spaces. If you want to go above and beyond, there are cat boxes that attach to window openings. They're like little, glass or screened-in rooms where your cat can hang out, enjoying some fresh air and a good view without the risks of allowing them to roam freely.
  
  
• Create a Perch
  Many cats, especially those who are less confident, enjoy being able to look down over the space they're in. If you create some sort of perch where your cat can sit, you may notice they become more comfortable and outgoing. Pet stores sell plenty of cat towers and similar items. But you can also make your own cat perch with a dresser or tall bookshelf. Stack some boxes next to it so your cat can climb up, or place a chair next to the furniture. Add a cat bed or folded blanket to the top, and you're set.
  
  
• Buy a Scratching Post
  If you provide your kitty with a nice scratching post, they'll less likely to scratch your furniture and trim. Scratching posts made from soft woods, like pine, tend to be a favorite among cats. When you first get the scratching post, rub a little catnip on it. Or, you can spray it with some catnip spray. This will attract your cat to the post. Once they scratch it a time or two, they'll form a habit and keep coming back for more. Remember to replace the post when it starts looking overly worn.

We hope you get a chance to celebrate Happy Cat Month by making some of these cat-friendly home updates. If you and your feline companion are searching for a new home, please contact us. Our real estate agents are happy to help.