Nov 143 min read

Enrichment Ideas to Keep your Cat Happy & Engaged

Cats have a natural sense of curiosity. Like all animals, they benefit from both mental and physical stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. Including enrichment activities in your cat’s routine can help prevent boredom, reduce stress and increase their overall well-being (Schade, 2024). Read on below for some ways to keep your cat engaged and entertained at home!

Enrichment Activities: 5 Ways to Enrich your Cat’s Life at Home

Number 1. Wands.

To engage your cat's natural chase and pounce instincts, wiggle around the feather toy in front of your cat to mimic the movement of birds! These toys can be as simple as getting a stick and tying ribbon to the end of it or you can purchase fancy ones with interchangeable parts. Whatever you choose, this is a great tool for giving your cat a combination of both mental and physical stimulation.

Number 2. Ball Toys.

Ball toys are another great option for your feline friend! “Their movement along the floor mimics the movement of scampering mice or other prey animals, which will entice cats to chase” (Welch 2022). Just like the feather wands, these toys can have variations amongst them. You can choose a toy that catnip or treats can be hidden in for a reward, or one that has a bell inside to make it more engaging for your cat. The only downside here is the amount of times you will probably be trying to find them under the couch!

Number 3. Catnip Toys.

What is catnip? “Catnip, or Nepeta cataria, is a common herb that is a member of the mint family…and it can cause behavioral changes in cats. These behaviors can include overt signs of affection, relaxation, and happiness. Other cats will display active behaviors, such as playfulness” (Hoffman 2024). There are lots of catnip toys on the market and your cat will likely enjoy whatever you choose! Please keep in mind to monitor your cat at all times whenever playing with a toy containing catnip or any other substance.

Number 4. Vertical Space.

Cats enjoy viewing their world from high above. Consider buying (or making!) a perch for them to lounge on. You can start with something as simple as a single cat home, or - if you’re really dedicated - create a whole cat city filled with shelves and perches on your wall (though I do recommend doing a bit more research before committing to this one…). As always, make sure whatever you choose is sturdy and safe for your pet and monitor them when using at first.

Number 5. Puzzles.

Puzzle feeders are a great tool to use for your cat! “Puzzle feeders force your c

at to work and use their brains to access food. This helps beat the boredom and can be very positive and rewarding for your furry friend!” (Rogers-Smith 2023). You can purchase these at any pet store or on Amazon!

Enrichment for Cats: An Important Part of Keeping Your Cat Healthy & Happy

I hope these have given you a great starting point for adding in enrichment activities for your cat! Trust me, your cat will thank you for trying some of these out! As always, watch your cat closely while doing these activities and consult with an animal specialist or veterinarian should you have any issues.

All the best on your cat enrichment journey!