Feline Enrichment
Have you heard the saying, “Curiosity killed the cat”? Our feline companions are very curious by nature. If cats are not given plenty of safe ways to play and explore, it can mean trouble! Fortunately, there are many toys and enrichment opportunities available to entertain your cat, keeping them happy and healthy! Cats need to be able to exercise both their minds and bodies to stay healthy. Enrichment that allows them to think, climb, pounce, and scratch will do just that! We’ve selected some of our personal favorites for you to try with your cats.
Fountains are a great source of entertainment for cats. They love to watch the flowing water and splash around with their paws. This activity can get a little messy, so be sure to place the fountain on a mat or waterproof surface to catch the water spills.
Something about the movement of water is a real curiosity for cats. Add a few “fish”, and you are looking at hours of enriching play. You can purchase a simulated aquarium or use a real aquarium with plastic floating fish to entertain your feline friend.
If you have children around, chances are you have a bottle of bubbles somewhere in the house. Cats love to watch, chase, and pop the bubbles. This can be a wonderful source of exercise for your cat and can even provide you with some entertainment watching them leap up into the air to snag a bubble.
Another great way to provide your cat adequate exercise is a cat wall. A cat wall takes cat trees to the next extreme. Different perches and objects securely mounted to the wall provide many climbing opportunities to get your cat up and moving around.
You don’t even have to invest in expensive store-bought toys. Simple items around the
house can also make engaging toys for your cat. Throw a few pompoms out on the floor for your cat to bop and chase. Cats also really enjoy rolling and shredding paper towel rolls and crumpled paper.
Play and interact with your cat in some of these enrichment activities today and watch as they become happier, healthier companions! You may also just notice they aren’t getting into quite as much trouble around the house because their activity and attention needs are being better met!