~ Melissa's Animal Care Tip for April, 2021.

     "Cats like a view. Have you noticed that? I especially like to be near the ceiling. Jumping up is easy. Jumping down a bit more difficult, but definitely worth the trip up.

     "Do your cats have places up high where they can hang out? A sturdy cat tree is essential for cats, especially one that takes them near the ceiling.

     "As you can see, I don't have a cat tree in every room, so I have to improvise."

Nedda's comments:

Indoor cats need stimulation for good mental and physical health. They also need ways to exercise. While Melissa runs and runs and runs when she goes outside, there are days when she can't because of rain or snow or very cold temps with winds that just weren't designed for a Southeast Asian feline with a fine fur coat. And she doesn't run much inside.

If your cats are indoors all the time, having feline "exercise equipment" will keep them healthier and happier. Just be sure it's safe. Cat trees should be heavy - weighted at the bottom so that if a cat leaps off it, the tree won't fall down, and stable enough for multiple cats to chase and wrestle while climbing. I recommend that cat trees be at least 4 levels (5 or more feet) high to be good for climbing exercise.

If you search for "cat equipment on walls" in your favorite browser, you'll discover a whole new realm of fun furniture for your cats.