Photo: © GEORGE H. HARRISON

"My cat could never be happy indoors" is a typical response from owners that allow their pets to roam outside. "It isn't natural for cats to live indoors" is another rationale. Neither excuse is true. In fact, indoor cats are healthier, longer-lived and more content. And a cat’s interest in birds can easily be satisfied by setting up a bird-friendly area outside a window that will provide entertainment that is safe and natural for the cat and the birds. It could even lead to a new dimension in the owner's life as well.

All you need to do is provide the three essentials of any successful backyard bird habitat—food, cover and water—outside the cat's favorite viewing window. Begin by installing a couple of small trees or shrubs (in the ground or in pots) for natural cover. Then place several bird feeders, containing a variety of bird foods—seeds, suet and sugar water—in the area, along with a small birdbath. In no time, the birds will find the mini-habitat outside your cat window and make it a regular stopping place on their rounds of the neighborhood. All this action will be to the delight of Thomas or Thomasina, who will not miss a beat.�?/FONT>George H. Harrison