Not Just Small Dogs: Enrichment Ideas to Keep Your Cat Healthy, Happy, and Entertained

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If you’ve ever watched a zoo animal paw at a puzzle feeder, sniff out hidden treats, or swipe at hanging toys, you’ve seen enrichment in action. Enrichment means giving animals a chance to use their minds and bodies in healthy, natural ways. It’s just as important for pets at home as it is for lions, tigers, or bears (oh my!) behind the glass.

Most dog owners have gotten the message that dogs need daily walks, training games, and puzzle toys. Cats, on the other hand, are often left out. Many indoor cats spend their days snoozing with not much to do. Boredom can lead to stress, and stress in cats is no small thing. Stressed cats are more likely to develop urinary problems, gain weight, overgroom, or show unwanted behaviors.

The good news is that keeping your cat’s mind and body busy doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. A few small changes can make a big difference. In this post, I’ll share simple, creative ideas to help your cat stay active, curious, and just a little less likely to knock your favorite mug off the counter for entertainment.

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Types of Cat Enrichment

Enrichment gives indoor pets ways to mimic their natural instincts like hunting, exploring, and playing. Here are the main types to think about:

Physical Enrichment
Think of this as your cat’s personal gym. When a cat has nothing fun to do, it’s easy for them to get sluggish or overweight. Make physical activities as fun and varied as you can. Just like my home gym sometimes collects dust, a cat tree alone isn’t always enough to keep them moving without encouragement.

Mental Enrichment
In the wild, cats spend their days solving puzzles: where to hide, how to stalk prey, when to move. Indoor cats can still flex these problem-solving skills with puzzle feeders, treat toys, and interactive games.

Sensory Enrichment
A cat’s world inside four walls can get boring fast. Mixing in new scents, textures, toys, or even cat-specific videos keeps things fresh and exciting.

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Enrichment Ideas You Can Try Today

I’ve included a few product links below to make it easier to find supplies. Some may be affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission (at no cost to you) if you choose to buy through them — thank you for supporting my work!

Change Up Feeding Time

• Move the food bowl to a new spot or split meals into small portions hidden around the house to encourage “hunting.”
• Try puzzle feeders or toys that make your cat work for treats.
• Offer new, safe treats in moderation, but avoid sudden diet changes that could upset their stomach.

Explore the Outside World (Safely)

• Supervise any outdoor time. Cats should never roam freely without your watchful eye.
• Practice leash walking — it may take some patience, but many cats learn to love it.
• A pet stroller can help cats enjoy fresh air and new sights without wandering.
• Build or buy a catio (cat patio) so your cat can safely experience the outdoors.
• Keep up with parasite prevention and vaccines if your cat spends time outside.

Mimic the Hunt Indoors

• Use laser pointers, feather wands, or interactive toys that tap into your cat’s natural hunting drive.
• Try cat-specific apps or videos that encourage chasing and pouncing.

Make Their Environment “Wild”

• Grow cat-safe plants like cat grass.
• Add climbing options: cat trees, shelves, or window perches.
• Give your cat cozy hideouts for napping and spying on the world.

Add Space for Calm and Relaxation

• Cats are solitary predators by nature. Make sure each cat in your home has its own space to retreat to when they need a break.
• Plug in calming pheromone diffusers like Feliway for extra comfort.
• Offer soft beds, tunnels, or covered hideaways to create a safe den.

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Don’t Forget to Keep It Fresh

Cats can get bored quickly but also forget just as fast. Rotating toys and activities every few days keeps things interesting without requiring you to buy something new every week.

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When to Get Extra Help

If your cat still seems bored or stressed, or if you notice new behavior changes, talk with your veterinarian. Stress-related health problems, like urinary issues or excessive grooming, can quickly turn into serious medical concerns such as a urinary blockage. Don’t wait to get advice if something feels off.

A helpful resource: Ohio State University’s Indoor Pet Initiative

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Tell Me About Your Cat!

What’s your cat’s favorite toy or enrichment activity? Share it in the comments. I’d love to hear what keeps your feline friend entertained.

If you’d like more ideas, check out my other pet parent guide blog posts and follow me on Facebook and Instagram for ideas on how to keep your pets healthy, happy, and thriving.