Tips For Keeping An Indoor Cat Entertained

Did you know that cats, like humans, can become bored? It may appear that Fluffy is aiming for boredom, or that it is a life ambition. After all, kittens appear to love lying around and doing as little as possible. Even the laziest kitty requires some enrichment. In this article from Hassayampa Veterinary Services, serving Wickenburg and the surrounding communities, a local veterinarian discusses how to keep your feline overlord happy and purring.

Why Should You Keep Your Cat Indoors?

While we will usually adapt our cat care advice based on Fluffy’s age, temperament, and health, there is one thing we virtually always recommend: keep your cat indoors. The Great Outdoors presents some major threats to an inquisitive tiny ball of fur. Fluffy is exposed to a wide range of risks the moment she steps outside, including automobiles, weather, wild animals, parasites, chemicals, loose canines, and, unfortunately, some people.

Why Is Boredom Bad for Cats?

It’s easy to forget how crucial mental stimulation is for pets. Cats, like us, need enrichment to thrive. If your kitty companion has nothing to do but look at the walls, she may become dissatisfied.

While our primary focus will be on Fluffy’s physical health and well-being, we recognize that an animal’s emotional well-being is inextricably linked to their health. Kitties are extremely emotional, and their dissatisfaction can appear in a variety of ways. If your feline pal is bored, it could manifest in some unwanted ways, such as bad behavior, depression, poor appetite, poor grooming, escape attempts, and aggression

What Are Some Kitty Entertainment Options?

Now for the fun part! We all know Fluffy adores catnip mice. However, this is not the only way to keep cats entertained.

Here are a few of our favorites:

Playtime: While it is vital for your pet to have toys that she can use independently, she should also have toys that you can use to play with her. Make it a habit to set aside at least 10 minutes per day to play with your cat. This will not only entertain your adorable pet, but it will also promote bonding. Furthermore, it will offer Fluffy a feline workout, boost her confidence, and make her feel cherished.

Window Seats: a window seat could be one of Fluffy’s preferred forms of entertainment. Your kitty companion could spend hours lounging and daydreaming about hunting while observing birds and squirrels.

Cat Gardens: Many of our kitty friends like nibbling on green leaves and sniffing plants. Set out some pet-friendly plants for Fluffy! You can also construct her a small cat garden. One solution is to plant cat grass in a litterbox. Just make sure you stick to items you know are safe. You may view a complete list on the ASPCA website here.

Boxes: We may never understand Fluffy’s box fixation, but we couldn’t leave it out of this story. Bring your pet an empty box to look lovely in. Kitties also like paper grocery bags.

Games: Did you know that there are now games made just for Fluffy to play on a smartphone or tablet? Try a few out. Some cats really like them!

Cat TV: Yes, there are programs designed specifically for Fluffy. As one might assume, many of these include birds, squirrels, and other small critters that your feline companion would hunt in the wild. Some cats appear to really enjoy this! If nothing else, the background noise will provide stimulation.

Smart Toys: Modern technology has grown in leaps and bounds over the last few decades, yet our feline friends have not been forgotten or left behind. There are plenty of cute and exciting new toys for our feline friends to push beneath the couch! You can get your pet a mouse that responds to her movements or a laser pointer that you can operate via an app.

Things to Explore: Have you ever noticed how cats enjoy climbing up to high places? Fluffy can’t see very far from the ground, so it’s no surprise she prefers climbing to higher elevations. Cat towers are ideal for this. They also include resting areas and jungle gyms.

Ask your Wickenburg, AZ vet for more information.

Book An Appointment At Our Pet Hospital

Is your kitty companion due for an exam? Contact us, Hassayampa Veterinary Services, your Wickenburg, AZ animal clinic, serving Wickenburg and the surrounding communities, at any time!