For cat guardians, providing a safe and stimulating environment is crucial to ensuring our feline companions lead happy and healthy lives. In 30 years of working with cats, my concept of “basecamp” is a fundamental approach to achieving this. Read on to find out what basecamp entails and how it can create a harmonious home for our beloved feline friends.

Understanding Basecamp

In the wild, cats have territories that provide them with a sense of security and familiarity. In the domestic environment, this need for territory and a safe haven remains just as important. Basecamp is my fancy name for a designated area in the home that serves as the central hub for a cat’s daily activities. It is a place where a cat can feel secure, find comfort, and access essential resources – all essential ingredients for boosting their mojo! 

Creating the Perfect Basecamp

Choose a location that is quiet, away from high-traffic areas, and free from potential disturbances. Cats are creatures of habit, and they prefer a peaceful space where they can retreat undisturbed.

Furnish the basecamp with all the essentials a cat needs, such as food and water dishes, a cozy bed or cushion, and a litter box. These “scent soakers” – porous objects or items that absorb and retain a cat’s scent – play a crucial role in helping cats feel secure and comfortable in their environment, as they rely heavily on scent for communication and marking their territory. Placing scratching posts and toys in the area will also provide enrichment and mental stimulation.

It’s essential to avoid washing or removing these items too frequently, as the scent is a vital component of a cat’s comfort and familiarity in their environment. When introducing new items into a cat’s space, allowing them to gradually absorb the cat’s scent or using familiar scent soakers can help ease the transition and reduce stress. Understanding and respecting a cat’s need for scent-marked items is a crucial step in building their basecamp!

Benefits of Basecamp

Security and Comfort: Cats are creatures of habit who thrive on routine and familiarity. A basecamp provides a designated space where your cat can feel safe and secure. It becomes their sanctuary, a place where they can relax without fear of disturbances or threats.

Territory Establishment: By providing a designated area, a cat can establish their territory within the home. This sense of ownership can prevent territorial disputes with other pets and create a more peaceful coexistence.

Behavioral Improvements: Cats with a well-defined basecamp are more likely to exhibit positive behaviors and less likely to engage in destructive behaviors like scratching furniture or spraying, which is often traced to territorial insecurity.

Bonding: Spending time with your cat in their basecamp can enhance your bond and trust with each other. It serves as a place for playtime, grooming, and relaxed interactions.

Adapting to New Environments: When moving to a new home or introducing a new pet, having a basecamp allows your cat to adapt gradually. They can start by familiarizing themselves with their basecamp before exploring the rest of the house, reducing stress during the transition.

Closing thoughts

Building a basecamp for your cat will significantly enhance their quality of life and overall well-being. By providing them with a secure and stimulating environment, you will help your cats feel confident in their territory. Remember, each cat is an individual, so observe your feline companion’s preferences and adapt the basecamp accordingly. A harmonious home begins with understanding and meeting the needs of our animal family, and basecamp is an excellent step towards achieving that goal.

SEE JACKSON GALAXY LIVE VIA SATELLITE AT THE CAT LOVERS FESTIVAL IN SYDNEY

Jackson Galaxy will appear live from LA, via satellite, on the WHISKAS® Stage at the Cat Lovers Festival, at Sydney Showground, on Saturday 26 & Sunday 27 August, 2023. He will present two talks: ‘Discover why playing with your cat is the most important thing to do’, at 11am; and ‘Environmental enrichment: discover ‘Catification’ for a more comfortable, confident kitty’ at 1.30pm.