Evidence exists that feeding processed food to carnivores can cause abnormal behaviors such as alopecia and may predispose animals to gum disease. At the Metro Washington Park Zoo, large boulders physically keep the animals away from plantings and prevent soil compaction. Small decorative vegetation can be planted in the crevices between rocks, and grass can gain a strong foothold at the base of the rocks. Thorny or other unpleasant plants can also be used to protect more vulnerable vegetation. Controlling which areas are heavily used can help establish vegetation.
Muddy spots can make other spaces less appealing for heavy use.
Placing bones or other desirable objects at specific locations can encourage the use of that area. The placement of heat pads, shade and other sheltered areas can also help with planning landscaping strategies. Plants themselves can provide a wide variety of partial shelter and visual barriers. An animal's enclosure is usually so static that any new addition causes considerable attention. Making unnecessary changes in a cat's environment regularly cannot only help increase the animal's activity level by providing a more stimulating environment, but also assists the cat's ability to adjust to necessary changes when they arise.