Safe Cats, Living Gardens – Creating Pet-Friendly and Biodiversity-Friendly Homes
This workshop is number 5 in the Our Gardens summer workshop series. See all workshops here.
About the Workshop
Can we create spaces that are safe for our pets while also protecting local wildlife? This unique workshop explores how thoughtful home and garden design can support both animal welfare and biodiversity. Using a real-life example of a cat-friendly home, you’ll discover practical ways to care for cats while reducing risks to birds, insects, and other wildlife.
What You Will Learn
During this workshop, you will:
- Understand how everyday household and garden choices affect local biodiversity
- Learn why free-roaming cats can impact wildlife and how to reduce this safely
- Explore practical solutions such as catios, enclosed spaces, and supervised outdoor time
- Identify simple ways to make gardens more wildlife-friendly – even with pets
- Reflect on the connection between caring for animals and caring for nature
What We Will Do
This is a practical and reflective session, including:
- Introduction & Discussion: Explore the relationship between pets, homes, and biodiversity
- Guided Catio Tour: See how a real enclosed outdoor space works for cats and wildlife
- Mini Workshop: Discover practical solutions for safer coexistence in different living situations
- Garden Observation: Identify biodiversity-friendly features around a pet-friendly home
- Storytelling Circle: Share experiences and reflections about animals and nature
- Coexistence Action Plan: Choose one simple change you can apply at home
What You Will Take Home
- Practical ideas for creating safer environments for both pets and wildlife
- Inspiration for adapting your home, balcony, or garden
- A personalised action plan for improving coexistence
- New perspectives on responsible pet ownership and biodiversity
Why It Matters
Domestic cats are part of many households, but they also interact with local ecosystems. By making thoughtful choices, we can reduce pressure on wildlife while improving the wellbeing of our pets. Creating spaces for coexistence helps protect biodiversity and supports more balanced, sustainable communities.