Cats like dogs have a symbiotic relationship with humans though as thinking beings, we should respect that they are not mere playthings. Justice Douglas saw the instrumental character of nature as a whole, and even his famous dissent arguing that standing should be given to inanimate objects was somewhat instrumental in nature:
So it should be as respects valleys, alpine meadows, rivers, lakes, estuaries, beaches, ridges, groves of trees, swampland, or even air that feels the destructive pressures of modern technology and modern life. The river, for example, is the living symbol of all the life it sustains or nourishes—fish, aquatic insects, water ouzels, otter, fisher, deer, elk, bear, and all other animals, including man, who are dependent on it or who enjoy it for its sight, its sound, or its life. The river as plaintiff speaks for the ecological unit of life that is part of it. Those people who have a meaningful relation to that body of water—whether it be a fisherman, a canoeist, a zoologist, or a logger—must be able to speak for the values which the river represents and which are threatened with destruction.This -- in a fashion -- reflex what was done yesterday. The USSC brought in an advocate for a side that neither the federal government or challengers wish to speak for. This wasn't a matter of theoretical interest. The USSC wished to cover an argument that held that they didn't have the power to do something because that was allegedly what the law demanded to limit the breadth of judicial power. Nature too has a value, but sometimes no one has its back. This includes the animate parts.
This need not be a matter of "standing" as decided by the courts, but also an interest recognized by the people overall. For instance, having animal welfare groups given the power to carry out and protect the interests of animal welfare laws as "private attorney generals" do in some contexts. Also, of course, there are groups in general interested in protecting the well being of nature, animals and so forth. More power to them all.
I also would reference Nature's Justice, cited earlier, that includes discussions by William O. Douglas about how he believes nature has a cleansing function and also one that brings a certain degree of humility regarding our place in this world. Like animals, I think we need to remember that it is not just about us. Plus, there are various issues involved, ecological matters a balance of many things. For instance, at one point, he ironically suggests nuclear power would be a means to limit the use of other more ecologically threatening means of power.
I live in the "urban jungle," but my opening standard "cat blogging" sentiment shows that "nature" has some place even here. One part of that is the much maligned in some parts pigeon, which is after all just a plebeian word for a dove. At a nearby park, I appreciate the goings on of our leading urban aviary member, them also have entertainment value in their own fashion. For instance, a local store sells small bags of sesame sticks, a tasty and nutritious snack. Watching what occurs when you toss a piece or pieces out in pretty interesting. And, like an advance party, one swoops in and then a few more. See also, bread and pretzels.
Anyways, read Douglas reference the NYC subway while waiting for one and though it has its ups and downs, a trip on a NYC bus or train has its pleasures as well. A half-hour trip on the bus recently was nice with various urban scenes occurring outside. Urban life might not be for him, but it is not that bad. There are even some signs of nature.