Cat Enrichment
Environmental enrichment plays an important part to the overall well being of your cat. Not only do we want our cats to be physically healthy but mentally as well. While having indoor cats keeps them physically safer, it’s not always the best for their mental health. This is where we start to see behavior changes in our cats. But don't worry, there are ways you can help!
Signs your cat might be bored indoors
● Over grooming
● Chasing or fighting with other pets in the home
● Over eating or under eating
● Scratching furniture
● Litter box issues
Ways to provide enrichment for your cat
1. Food Puzzles - This will help with your cat's natural instinct to hunt for their food. There are many types of food puzzles available at your local pet store or even DIY ones.
2. Vertical Space- Provide your cat with the feel of outdoors without leaving the house. By creating perches, shelves or having a cat tower by windows will allow your cat to view the outdoors and release their climbing and clawing needs. There are many different ways to create vertical spaces for your cat!
3. Interactive Toys- These toys create a bonding experience between you and your cat. They can include wand toys, strings, and laser pointers (remember to always have a toy for them to catch in the end!).
4. Self Play Toys.- These are types that a cat can use on their own. There are a variety of battery operated toys, balls or even something as simple as a cardboard box! Check out your local pet store for many options!
Providing your cat with an enrichment filled environment will lead to a mentally, emotionally and physically happy cat!
Signs your cat might be bored indoors
● Over grooming
● Chasing or fighting with other pets in the home
● Over eating or under eating
● Scratching furniture
● Litter box issues
Ways to provide enrichment for your cat
1. Food Puzzles - This will help with your cat's natural instinct to hunt for their food. There are many types of food puzzles available at your local pet store or even DIY ones.
2. Vertical Space- Provide your cat with the feel of outdoors without leaving the house. By creating perches, shelves or having a cat tower by windows will allow your cat to view the outdoors and release their climbing and clawing needs. There are many different ways to create vertical spaces for your cat!
3. Interactive Toys- These toys create a bonding experience between you and your cat. They can include wand toys, strings, and laser pointers (remember to always have a toy for them to catch in the end!).
4. Self Play Toys.- These are types that a cat can use on their own. There are a variety of battery operated toys, balls or even something as simple as a cardboard box! Check out your local pet store for many options!
Providing your cat with an enrichment filled environment will lead to a mentally, emotionally and physically happy cat!
