10 Reasons Your CH Cat May Need a Playpen

As much as we love our CH kitties, sometimes it would make life considerably easier if they just stayed put!

For example, I absolutely love Ellie — she’s always a happy girl and wants to be in the middle of everything. I think it’s fabulous how brave she is to want to be where the action is, but sometimes that can mean she’s chasing after me and getting underfoot, which can be dangerous.

It was one day when I was trying to clear out the dishwasher with my little helper when I realized the value of a pet playpen. She was trying to help, in fact, trying to climb into the dishwasher (something we’re trying to teach her is not OK). She was so happy and having so much fun, but it wasn’t very safe for her.

I’m sure we all have similar stories. One time or another we just wish these kitties could be in a safe, yet confined area, which is why many folks in the CH Cat Community have purchased playpens.

A playpen can be a safe option for times like:

• Returning from the vet (after going under anesthesia or another situation that could require slow re-acclimation to your home)
• When you’re away from home (while you’re at work or running a quick errand — and you don’t have another safe space for kitty)
• After an injury (even after slight ones, your cat may appreciate a low-key environment)
• When you bring a new furry family member into your home and they have to meet your other pets
• A time out area for kitties who have the crazies
• A confined litter box area if you have a kitty who may track her business all around the house
• A safe sleeping spot
• A mini play room that contains all of her toys
• An outdoor play pen
• A safe place for kitty to rest while you’re running around (ie, in the kitchen!)

The great thing about most of these playpens is that even while your kitty is inside of it, she will most likely still be able to see you, which can be a great comfort to her.

But purchasing a playpen can be quite an expense. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Consider your pet’s abilities and needs: Is a playpen necessary? How often would she use it? How long would she be in there? Where would you use it (indoors or outdoors)? Could she escape? How easy is it to transport, clean, etc? How big is it and what would you need to fit in there (bed, litter pan, food and water)? Can your kitty jump? Is there a top on it or could she jump or climb out? How do other owners rate its ability to withstand wear and tear?

Do some online shopping first: Take a look at what’s available online, and possibly try to find it in a store near you to save on shipping costs. There are a variety of pet playpens available online in a number of shapes, styles and sizes. For example, I found these on Amazon:

Best Pet Folding Play Pen – M – Burgundy, $29.00

Pet Gear® Home ‘N’ Go Medium Pet Pen, $91.54

IRIS Plastic Exercise / Containment Pet Pen for Dogs, White, $50

ABO Gear Happy Habitat for Indoor Cats, $53.49

Kittywalk Pet Gazebo, $329.95

Be sure to read the reviews: This can save you a good deal of time and money, especially if past purchasers of the product think it’s defective or if another model is superior. If there aren’t any reviews, check with the CH Kitty Club, Google the product name or ask folks on Twitter if they’ve had experience with the product.

What do you think? Do you own a pet playpen? How has it worked with your crew? If not, would you consider purchasing one? Please share!