Interactive Cat Toys and Enrichment

Let’s be honest: if cats could talk, they wouldn’t. Seriously. It’s a well-known trait of cat-itude to be fiercely independent.

But did you know, without regular mental and physical stimulation, your kitty’s purrs can turn into hisses fur-ry quickly?

That’s why it’s important to keep your feline fascinated throughout the day. And we hate to break it to you, but re-runs of Claw and Order – or books on the Egyptian purr-amids – won’t do the trick.

Don’t worry, though. Because we’ve put together our top tips and tricks for keeping your kitty entertained all day. Even when you’re away!

What is cat enrichment?

Cat enrichment is all about fulfilling your cat’s instincts.

Because let’s not forget that back in the day, they didn’t have their personal assistant (AKA, you) sourcing their food, water and healthcare for them.

Nope. As our friend David Attenborough would say: in the wild, cats have to hunt, climb and run to survive. So it’s no wonder that without regular stimulation of these natural instincts, your cat can start to get really hiss-ed off.

And just like our furry friends, cat enrichment comes in all shapes and sizes:

• Environmental enrichment: Take your tabby outside to stop and smell the roses. And get yourself a cat tree to give your kitty some climb time.
• Social enrichment: You know what they say: ‘cats just wanna have fun’ – whether it comes in the form of play, or interaction!
• Cognitive enrichment: From behavioural training to problem solving, we all need to train our brain every now and then. And our clever kitties are no different!

How do I know if my cat is bored?

Well, they’ll pull out their phone and open Candy Crush – oh wait, that’s us!

Your cat has far more subtle – and often destructive – boredom busters than us humans. And most of them are not good for their health.

For example, if you notice your cat:

• Overgrooming – they could develop a skin irritation.
• Messing with other household or neighbourhood animals – they might get the claws.
• Being inactive – they might develop depression.
• Not eating – they could miss out on important nutrients.
• Overeating – they could become obese.
• Or taking matters into their own paws and entertaining themselves – your home’s furnishings may pay the price.

So, how can I keep my kitty occupied?

If you’re after environmental enrichment…

Well, then we’d recommend sinking your claws into a scratching post.

Just like cat trees, scratching posts give your cat the space to satisfy their scraping spurs – living room couches rejoice!

But if your cat’s claws are under control, then your kitty might enjoy its very own wellness centre.

As we know, cats are very tactile. So if you provide a space for them to groom, rub and roll all over, they’ll think Santa Paws came early.

If you’re after social enrichment…

If you’re after cognitive enrichment…

If you want to DIY…

Every Harry Paw-ter needs their wand. And luckily, they’re easy to make!

All you need is a long piece of dowel – or an old tree branch – with some elastic or string attached to one end holding a feather or ping pong ball.

Or, take a leash out of our other four-legged friends’ book and go for walkies! Letting your cat get out and about is one of the easiest – and cheapest – ways to exercise their brains and their bodies.