10 Clever Cat Hacks Every Outdoor and Feral Cat Parent Should Know

Sharing your life with a cat is one of the greatest joys. Whether you're raising a pampered pet or caring for an independent outdoor or feral cat, most of us learn the ropes one day at a time—improvising, adapting, and figuring it out as we go, especially when they wake you up at 4am for no reason at all and spend the afternoon treating your velvet chair like a scratching post.

And while there's no guidebook to becoming the perfect cat parent, there are a few smart tricks that can make life with your feline a lot easier (and cleaner).  Whether you're dealing with indoor chaos or managing a backyard setup with an outdoor pet house or feeding station, these clever hacks can help you create a safer, smoother routine for both you and your cat.

1. Grow Your Own Catnip & Cat Grass

Buying catnip over and over again? Start your own stash! It’s easy to grow catnip and cat grass at home—and your cats will love it. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to keep them entertained, whether they live indoors or in an outdoor cat house with space to roam.

It’s easy to grow your own: Catnip thrives in full sun and well-drained soil—just plant seeds indoors in early spring or directly in the garden once it’s warm. Once the plant is mature, you can snip the leaves and flowers, dry them upside down in a cool, dark place, then crumble and store in an airtight container. Your cats will thank you.

2. Microchip Your Cat for Peace of Mind

Outdoor and feral cat houses and feeding stations offer shelter—but what about safety on the move? A microchip gives your adventurous cat the best shot at returning home if they wander too far. Don’t skip it if you’re supporting a TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) colony or managing a community of strays.

3. Keep Cords Covered

Cats love to chew... and power cords are unfortunately very chewable. Use cord covers, protective wraps, or tape to keep cords secure both indoors and around outdoor pet shelters where you might have lighting or heating elements.

4. Use Natural Cleaners for Accidents

Accidents happen—especially in multi-cat setups or when cats are adjusting to new environments like a feral cat feeding station. Keep vinegar and baking soda on hand for simple, pet-safe cleanups. Be careful with adding essential oils as many are toxic to cats!

5. Deodorize the Litter Box with Green Tea

Green tea leaves are a natural deodorizer. Sprinkle a few dry leaves into your litter box to reduce bacteria and odor. It’s an easy way to freshen up your cat shelter setup, especially in enclosed areas.

6. Protect Your Plants

Love plants? So do cats. To avoid digging and mischief, place pinecones around the base of your plants—it deters curious paws without harming your greenery.

7. Choose Better Bowls for Picky Eaters

If your cat avoids their food bowl, it might not be the food—it could be the dish. Low, wide bowls prevent whisker fatigue and can make mealtimes easier. For multiple cats, try investing in a feeding station or food station where everyone gets their own spot.

8. DIY Toy & Scratching Post

No need to splurge on toys! Toilet rolls, cardboard boxes, and sisal rope make great enrichment tools—especially for outdoor setups where you may not want pricey items exposed to the elements.

9. Give Them Vertical Space

Cats love to climb. If you’re using one of our outdoor feral cat houses with a raised platform, you’re already giving your cat the height they crave. Indoors, try bookshelves or climbing shelves to keep them happy and active.

10. Prioritize Daily Bonding

Even if your cat is independent, a little playtime or calm talking goes a long way. For feral cats, slow, consistent interaction can build trust over time. And trust us—nothing beats the moment a once-shy cat starts to purr in your presence.

Final Thoughts

Being a cat parent is a journey filled with fur, fun, and the occasional chaos. Whether you’re caring for an indoor pet or managing an outdoor colony, these simple hacks can make life smoother for both of you. And if you’re looking for the perfect outdoor cat house or cat feeding station, we’ve got handcrafted cedar options built to last through all seasons.