As inherently curious and energetic creatures, cats require regular stimulation and entertainment to lead a healthy life. Engaging your cat in fun physical activities not only aids their physical well-being; but also nurtures their mental strength, helping them beat stress and anxiety.
Here’s a laundry list of things you can do with your fur-mates to keep them hale, hearty, and bustling with life.
1 Invest in Interactive Cat Toys
Many advanced toys mimic the presence of prey through laser lights and other innovative means, stimulating all senses in your pet. Housing a few for your cat might prove to be a great boon to keep them engaged.
2 Play Fetch or Peek-a-boo!
Playing a physical game with cats, even if it is a classic dog game like fetch, can give them the stimulation they need and help you bond with them.
3 Give Them a Window to the World
For cats, looking out from a window or a backyard is both exciting and fulfilling. Setting up their baskets in a corner that gives them an outside view can work wonders for their mood and temperament.
4 Bring Home a Cat Tree with a Perch
Exploring vertical horizons is a natural craving in these tiny explorers and providing them with a space to be able to do so, within the house, can curb the urge to a leap outdoors.
5 Set Up a Cat Obstacle Course
Using household items like boxes, tunnels, or cushions, you can create an obstacle course for your cat to explore. This not only exercises their body but also challenges their mind, encouraging problem-solving.
6 Take Walks
Find a peaceful neighbourhood and take your cat out for a quiet adventure, preferably at a time when dogs or other pets aren’t crowding the locality.
7 Catnip Infused Play-Props
Cats often enjoy catnip, and toys filled with this herb can keep them entertained for hours. Catnip tends to spark playful behaviour, prompting bursts of energy like running and rolling around.
8 Make Meals Fun
Mealtime can become much more enriching for cats if they have to work towards finding their food. You can set up a puzzle feeder yourself or buy one from a pet store.
9 Keep their Territories Clean
Cats like keeping things tidy, and regularly cleaning up their litter boxes and play areas can keep their spirits high.
10 Spend Quality Time With Them
Cats love attention from their owners. This can be a source of great emotional energy for them. Petting and talking to your cat, undistracted, for at least a few minutes every day can significantly uplift their overall persona.
While keeping your cat active is essential, always ensure their safety. Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed, and never leave your cat unattended with a string or ribbon. Recognize when your cat needs a break and provide water after exercise to keep them hydrated. Last but not least, replace their regular cat collar with a GPS enabled one, so that you can trace them in case they wander away.
By introducing variety in the activities you participate in with your cat, you can ensure that they stay entertained and healthy, catering to their personality and energy levels. With these creative ideas, keeping your cat active will be a fun and rewarding experience, for both you and your feline friend.