MEOW! If you have a furry friend who loves to play with your blinds – your cat probably sees your blinds as a toy, a scratching post, or a hiding spot! But WAIT! Don’t panic, it’s not hopeless. In fact, it’s so easy that even a mouse can do it. Well, maybe not a mouse, but you get the idea. Here are some simple steps on how to cat proof blinds.
Why Do Cats Play with Blinds?
Before you start cat proofing your blinds, you need to understand why your cat is attracted to them in the first place. There are several reasons why cats play with blinds, such as:
- Curiosity: Cats are naturally curious and love to explore new things. They may be intrigued by the movement, sound, or texture of the blinds and want to investigate them.
- Boredom: Cats need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. If they don’t have enough toys, games, or attention, they may resort to playing with your blinds to entertain themselves.
- Hunting: Cats are predators and have a strong instinct to hunt and chase prey. They may see your blinds as potential targets and try to catch them with their paws or teeth.
- Comfort: Cats like to find cozy and secure places to nap and relax. They may see your blinds as a nice spot to curl up and snooze, especially if they can get some sun or warmth from the window.
How to Cat Proof Blinds
To cat proof your blinds, you need to follow these general steps:
- Hide the cords: If you have blinds with cords or strings, you need to keep them out of reach of your cat. Your cat may see them as toys and try to play with them, which can be dangerous and damaging. You can use hooks, clips, or ties to secure the cords to the wall or the window frame. Or you can opt for cordless blinds that are safer and more convenient.
- Spray the blinds with a deterrent: There are some smells that cats hate but humans don’t mind. You can use a pet-safe spray that has a citrus, rosemary, or lavender scent to deter your cat from playing with your blinds. Just make sure the spray is safe for your cat and your blinds before using it.
- Use double-sided tape: If your cat likes to climb on the window sill or the blind slats, you can use double-sided tape to discourage them. Cats don’t like the sticky feeling on their paws and will avoid touching it. You can apply the tape on the window sill or the blind slats where your cat tends to climb. Just be careful not to damage your window or your blinds with the tape residue.
- Create a cat-friendly window space: The best way to cat proof your blinds is to provide your cat with an alternative that is more appealing and satisfying than your blinds. You can create a cat-friendly window space where your cat can enjoy the view, the sun, and the breeze without bothering your blinds. You can use a cat bed, a cushion, a shelf, or a hammock that attaches to the window. You can also add some toys, treats, or catnip to make it more fun and enticing for your cat.
FAQs
Q: How much do cat proof blinds cost?
A: The cost of cat proof blinds depends on several factors, such as:
- The type and size of the blind
- The type and quality of the cat proofing materials
- The installation fee (if any)
Generally speaking, cat proofing your existing blinds can cost anywhere from $10 to $100 per window, depending on these factors.
Q: How long do cat proof blinds last?
A: The lifespan of cat proof blinds depends on several factors, such as:
- The frequency and intensity of use
- The quality and maintenance of the components
- The environmental conditions (such as humidity, temperature, dust, etc.)
Generally speaking, cat proof blinds can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years, depending on these factors.
Q: How do I maintain my cat proof blinds?
A: To maintain your cat proof blinds, you need to do the following things:
- Clean your blinds regularly with a soft cloth or brush to remove dust and dirt
- Replace or recharge your batteries (if any) when they run low
- Check and fix any loose or damaged wires or connections (if any)
- Contact the manufacturer or retailer if you encounter any problems or issues with your cat proof blinds
Wrap Up
Blinds are a useful and attractive window treatment that can help you adjust the light, privacy, and temperature in your room. They can also add some flair and personality to your home decor. But if you have a furry friend who loves to play with your blinds, you can cat proof them with some simple steps. You can hide the cords, spray the blinds with a deterrent, use double-sided tape, or create a cat-friendly window space.
Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.
