Domestic cats are interesting animals. There are very few other creatures that are both predator and prey in the natural world, and this dual role makes housing a cat in your home a little tricky – but also very entertaining and rewarding!
Why Environmental Enrichment is Important for Indoor Cats
Feral cats and domesticated outdoor cats spend much of their time each day hunting for food and exploring their ever-changing environments. These activities are both physically and emotionally stimulating, engaging all five of the cat’s senses.
Though there are numerous reasons to keep cats predominantly or exclusively inside the house (communicable diseases, parasites and physical harm, just to name a few), we must consider how to satisfy their instinctual needs for environmental stimulation and hunting behavior.
If these innate needs are not addressed, many behavioral issues – such as excessive grooming and destructive behaviors – can arise. Cats who do not receive enough stimulation and exercise are also more prone to obesity and other health concerns.
When implementing an enrichment program to your cat’s indoor environment, remember to change things up regularly. This can mean rotating toys or simply changing the location of food, treats or stationary toys to keep your cat on their toes. Below are a few ideas to help get you started with you cat’s enrichment routine.
10 Ways to Keep Indoor Cats Entertained
Get creative with household items – just make sure that they are safe and free of loose items that your cat may accidentally swallow!
Starting fresh with a kitten? Check out our wellness guide for more information. Don’t forget, many of our locations offer toys that provide environmental enrichment for cats. Stop by to shop!