Enrichment Tips for Indoor Cats : Engaging DIY Toys and Games
Cats are natural hunters, explorers, and problem-solvers, so living indoors can sometimes leave them feeling bored or under-stimulated without proper engagement. Providing enrichment for indoor cats is essential for their mental and physical well-being, and the good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune. With a bit of creativity, you can create simple, DIY activities that your cat will love.
Puzzle Feeders from Everyday Items
Stimulate your cat’s hunting instincts with DIY puzzle feeders. Use a toilet paper roll, cut a few holes along the sides, and fill it with your cat’s favourite treats or kibble. As your cat rolls the tube around, the treats will gradually fall out, making mealtime fun and rewarding. Alternatively, egg cartons and muffin trays can also work well for hiding small treats.
Why it works: It taps into your cat’s natural foraging behaviour while keeping their mind and body engaged.
Care Tip: Ensure any cardboard or plastic items used are free from glue or staples that could harm your cat. Always supervise during play to prevent chewing or swallowing small pieces.
Cardboard Box Obstacle Course
Cats love boxes, so why not turn them into a mini playground? Arrange different-sized boxes into tunnels, hidey-holes, and climbing areas. Cut entrance and exit holes in them, and hide toys or treats inside to encourage exploration.
Why it works: Boxes provide both a place to play and a sense of security, satisfying your cat’s curiosity and need for safe spaces.
DIY Wand Toys for Interactive Play
Create your own wand toy using simple household items. Attach a feather, string, or crumpled paper to a stick or string and wiggle it around to mimic prey movements. This type of interactive play helps your cat exercise and strengthens the bond between you and your pet.
Why it works: It mimics hunting, allowing your cat to practice its natural stalking and pouncing behaviours.
Care Tip: Always supervise your cat when using string or yarn-based toys, as ingesting string can lead to serious health issues. When playtime is over, store the wand toy in a safe place to prevent unsupervised access.
Window Watch Station
Set up a comfortable perch by a window, ideally with a view of birds or passing traffic. You can create this perch using a sturdy shelf or a piece of furniture covered in soft blankets. To enhance the experience, hang a bird feeder outside the window for endless entertainment.
Why it works: Cats are natural observers, and a good view offers them mental stimulation, keeping them entertained even when you’re not around.
Catnip-Filled Socks or Toys
Stuff an old sock with catnip and secure the end tightly to create a homemade toy. You can also add a bit of crinkly paper inside for extra sound stimulation.
Why it works: Catnip stimulates playful behaviour and provides an outlet for pent-up energy.
Care Tip: Inspect the toy regularly for signs of wear or loose threads. If the sock becomes damaged, replace it to avoid the risk of your cat ingesting small pieces of fabric.
Enrichment activities aren’t just about keeping your cat entertained—they help prevent boredom, reduce stress, and promote physical activity. Without enough stimulation, indoor cats can develop destructive behaviours or health issues like obesity.
By incorporating DIY enrichment into your daily routine, you’re giving your cat the opportunity to express natural instincts and maintain a healthy, happy lifestyle.
