How To Stimulate Your Cat's Mind with 3 Fun and Easy Games

Cats are the perfect companions. Just think about all those times you’ve been super stressed out at work, only to come home to find your cat curled up on the couch waiting for you. But cats aren’t just a static piece of decoration in the home only to be interacted with when it’s convenient for you. Nobody really likes to be bored. Whether you’re a human or an animal, being bored isn’t fun. Cats are no exception.

 

The best thing you can do for your cat is to engage in playtime with them. What does this mean? It means providing them with toys and activities that will stimulate their mind and allow them to use their natural hunting instincts. The key here is variety! 

 

If you’re having a hard time keeping your cat entertained and interested in their environment, then how about giving these 3 methods a try!

 

• Treat Game: Cats are naturally curious, just like their human counterparts. By hiding treats around the house (make sure there aren’t any food allergies) you can capitalize on this curiosity and stimulate your cat’s natural hunting instincts.

 

Your cat may not know where the food is right away, but with a little help from you – by moving the treats around – they will soon learn where they’re placed. When your cat finds a treat, give them lots of praise! This will encourage them to search harder in the future.

 

• Play Dates: Just like humans, cats need companionship, especially when they are young. If you’re trying to socialize your cat with other pets, start with dogs and work up to other cats. Just like humans who don’t know each other, introduce them slowly and let them get comfortable with one another first before letting them play together for extended periods of time.

 

• String/Rope Toys: String and rope toys are great alternatives to expensive laser pointers when it comes to keeping your cat entertained. If you have more than one cat, string or rope toys with multiple strings and knots can be a great way to keep them.

 

There are endless ways to keep your cat entertained at home. The key is to make sure that you find something that the both of you enjoy; otherwise, you’re setting yourself up for an unhappy cat and a neurotic owner! So take some time to consider what you and your pet have in common, then do what makes you both happy.

 

We’ll Support Your Cat’s Health at Heubner Oaks Veterinary Hospital!

At Huebner Oaks Veterinary Hospital, we are dedicated, we are dedicated to providing high-quality medical care to all our beloved patients. We understand that cat ownership can have its issues if your pet’s personality is conflicting with your own. If you’re struggling with behavioral issues, or need insight into how to better interact with your cat, please call us today for lifestyle and behavioral advice.