This is how you create a delightful garden for dogs and cats

Outdoor plants for dogs and cats, Plants are a big part of the garden, and in a pet-friendly garden, it is important to take a look at all the green and blooming. Trees, bushes, and perennials that can handle a bit of wear and tear are great plants for families with four-legged friends, such as catnip, astilbe, roses, ornamental grass, and lavender - and safe plants like sunflowers, asters, marigolds, cornflowers, and snapdragons.,When planting new, it can be smart to choose slightly larger plants that can withstand animals that like to play and dig in the soil. Also, consider removing plants that may be toxic. If your pet is acting strange and seems affected after being in the garden, you should contact a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Both dogs and cats like to dig – dogs usually because it's fun, cats to make a toilet. Use compost grids to protect plant boxes and beds if this becomes a problem in your garden. You can also create a corner where it's okay for the dog or cat to dig – using sand or bark will make their paws less muddy as well. Sensitive plants and growing areas can be protected by setting up a small fence or string at eye level, you can also plant the most sensitive plants in hanging baskets or raised beds. Another good tip is to simply plant close together, both cats and dogs tend to ignore beds that are planted closely. So plant a lot, in other words! It's also good for diversity.

Cats that are outdoors usually can go wherever they want, while dogs usually have to stay on the property. A dog-friendly garden should have a fence that is at least 180 cm high to be considered escape-proof (slightly lower for small dogs). Make sure it is not possible for the dog to squeeze through or dig under the fence, as they are incredibly resourceful when they want to be. If you opt for a fence, you can soften the appearance by planting bushes and tall plants inside it. Trellises covered with climbing plants like vines, clematis, or roses can also create an airy feel.

Dogs that spend a lot of time in the garden need a place where they can lie protected from rain and wind, for example a dog house or a separate space inside a greenhouse or a growing tunnel - something cats also appreciate. Many cats feel safer with a sleeping area that is slightly elevated from ground level, for example on a table or a shelf - preferably in the sun and near the entrance door, so the cat can lie there while waiting to come inside. Also, make sure to place a bowl of water nearby, at least on warm days.

The cat's urine is rarely a problem, since the cat buries it, but if it pees or defecates in the vegetable garden, it may be wise to protect the plants with compost mesh. Dog urine can sometimes cause burnt spots on the lawn. If you see the dog peeing on the lawn, you can dilute it by pouring a watering can on the spot.

Most cats like to climb trees and sneak around in tall vegetation, they usually avoid open areas where they can feel exposed, like large lawns. Therefore, plant a lot and densely if you want the cat to thrive in the garden. Growing catnip is also a good idea, since most cats love this plant. Cats also like to eat regular grass, which binds cat hair in the stomach and helps hairballs come up instead of becoming a problem in the cat's intestine.

If you have space, you can create a small agility course with obstacles for your dog to train in, such as jumps, tunnels, and a simple slalom course - it stimulates both the mind and body and can give you a calmer dog when indoors. Is your dog not interested in agility? No worries! Paths, different textures, and plants to sniff can be enough stimulation for many dogs. Create paths that wind through ornamental grass, catnip, astilbe, and lavender and build a beautiful landscape for your four-legged friend to explore.

Liselotte Roll, Swedish garden inspiration, journalist and author of books about nature, cultivation, and animals, such as "Earth", "Growing for Insects" and "Chickens as a Hobby". (Photo: Sandra Birgersdotter Ek)