If you are a cat owner, it is likely that you have wondered what your cat does all day and whether he is bored. Although most cats are very self-contained creatures capable of being content during days alone, some cats get bored or lonely when people are away. These behaviors can lead to destructive habits.
Fortunately, it is easy to keep your cat engaged during days when you are out of the house or when you simply want to offer fun, new activities for your cat. We rounded up a few things that should get your kitty’s eyes sparkling and encourage him to engage.
Toys
Cats love toys and many will happily chase catnip-filled mice or small balls around the floor for hours. For cats that want a little more action, there are plenty of wind-up toys on the market that will “run” when released by a human. These toys provide an extra challenge and help indoor cats get some good exercise.
For cats that prefer food-dispensing toys, there are plenty of them that mimic prey and provide your cat with a way to satisfy his or her wild nature. These toys often feature feathers or faux fur and dispense treats when properly moved, shaken or batted around. Some toys do not require any human interaction at all; many cats love freestanding “fishing poles” that feature a feather toy mounted onto a base with a spring -- perfect for cats who love to bat and leap at objects.
Furniture
No, we do not mean the couch. Many cats love to climb and perch in a high location. Without cat furniture, they will just as happily do this on your bookshelves and televisions, but that is not good for anybody in the household. To promote safer behavior for your kitty, invest in some fun cat furniture. Often called “cat trees,” these kitty jungle gyms come in a variety of shapes, sizes and configurations. Cats can enjoy ladders, scratching posts, attached toys, feline hammocks and a variety of other features. Additionally, feline furniture can help discourage your bored kitty from scratching up the house or scaling the curtains.
Company
If you really want to keep your cat engaged, get him or her a companion. While some cats are better off as only children, other cats crave companionship and will happily play with another cat. This is especially true with younger cats, as they tend to be more adaptable. If your kitty seems hungry for some company, consider bringing another cat home as a playmate.
Games
If you are looking for a way to engage your cat while you spend time together, consider playing games with your cat. Many cats can be taught to fetch like dogs and some enjoy clicker training, which provides a great opportunity to keep your kitty engaged while also learning a fun new trick.
If you have a kitty that needs something to keep him or her busy, consider the above options. Rest assured, though, that Kitty will still miss you when you’re gone!
Photo ©iStock.com/w-ings
