Activities To Enhance Your Cat’s Life
Skilled cat owners and breeders are aware that their animals detest boredom. Cats love to sleep and are generally laid-back, but they need a lot of mental and physical activity to be healthy.
Lack of socialization and enrichment is the root cause of many of cats’ major behavioral problems. If cats have nowhere to go to release their energy, they may take their frustrations out on other people or things, such as scratching or potty accidents.
Regarding feline enrichment, there are several ways to keep your cat cognitively and physically occupied. Let’s examine a few of your choices:
Games and puzzles
Cats may enjoy various puzzles and games, ranging from easy-to-use treat-dispensing toys to intricate board games. How do you pick the finest puzzle toy for your cat when so many are on the market? It is contingent upon your cat’s unique disposition and inclinations. While some cats enjoy toys that dispense food, others prefer toys they can chase or swat about. Additionally, although some cats enjoy a challenge, others like it more straightforward.
But our top pick, which works with practically all cats, is the Kitty Kong. The Kitty Kong is an excellent puzzle toy for cats of various ages and skill levels. With its distinctive form that causes it to bounce wildly, it may hold treats, wet or dry food, or catnip, which will keep your cat entertained. For an added challenge, you may freeze damp food inside the Kong.
Foraging and hunting
Most cats are still inclined to stalk and pounce on their meal even when they aren’t actively hunting. You may encourage your cat to behave in this way by hiding tiny meals or goodies for them to discover throughout your house.
You may use several methods to help your cat practice this. Electronic cat toys that move like mice or other tiny animals are available, as well as cat flirt sticks that enable you to mimic the movement of a prey species with a lure. Depending on your financial situation, you may spend as much or as little as you desire.
Space in the vertical
Give your cats lots of vertical room to explore since they love to climb. Give your cat(s) a place to perch and take in their surroundings by putting up cat trees, shelves, or window perches at various heights throughout your house. Even better, you may use Velcro to connect carpet or fabric strips to the wall to make a homemade climbing wall.
Cat trees are a popular option because they don’t need anything to be drilled or glued to walls. You may construct your cat tree at home or explore the many possibilities accessible on most internet pet retailers. The cat tree should be solid and well-constructed, devoid of surfaces that might injure your cat. Therefore, you’ll need extra care to sand down sharp edges and make the tree as safe as possible.
Scratching posts and other furnishings for cats
Cats scratch naturally, so give them lots of scratching posts and furniture made for felines. This will provide your cat(s) a space to stretch and exercise their muscles, in addition to helping to prevent your furniture from getting torn to pieces. If you’re looking for something that doesn’t take up a lot of vertical space, consider a cardboard scratch pad or one made of durable materials like sisal or jute.
Wheels for exercise
You might consider purchasing an exercise wheel if your indoor cat is very active. These little hamster wheels allow cats to run and release energy without leaving the comforts of home. Make sure the wheel is made especially for cats, and don’t skimp on it; the size and speed of the wheel might be hazardous if it breaks while your cat is using it.
Catios
Consider a catio, a fenced-in outdoor space for cats, similar to a human porch or sunroom. The best thing about catios is that they let your kitties enjoy the wide outdoors without you having to worry about them going lost or fighting with other animals. Additionally, you may personalize them to ensure your cats have all they want for entertainment (toys, climbers, scratchers, etc.).
Since cats are superb hunters and may decimate the animals in their region, this is one of the favorite ways to allow your cat to explore the outdoors alone.
Strolls
Cats, like dogs, may be trained to walk on a leash. This is a terrific method to keep them safe and give them some exercise and fresh air. Before taking them on longer walks, start slowly and use a harness that fits appropriately. However, ensure your cat is already well-socialized and gets along with other animals before doing this. Leash training is also necessary to prevent your cat from running away if encountering another cat or an animal that serves as prey.
Carry a cat carrier with you if your feline becomes frightened or overstimulated. It can be harmful for you and your cat to try to teach a scared cat to walk, and it is frequently ineffective.
Companionship
Despite how funny it may sound, providing your cat with a buddy can help prevent boredom, and the partner doesn’t have to be a cat!
Dogs are also excellent friends, and if they are introduced to each other and the house gradually, calmly, and carefully, there’s a strong chance that they will grow close.
Animal photographers abound with stories of cats and dogs coexisting, but like with other partnerships, there will inevitably be arguments and fights.
For cats of every breed or temperament, many enrichment alternatives are available. You’ll have a stronger relationship with your cat and know that your furry friend has the best life possible if you give them what they need to flourish.
