06 Nov A fun guide for keeping indoor cats happy and active
Life indoors can be cosy and safe for our feline friends, but cats are natural explorers who need stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Without the right mix of play, exercise, and enrichment, an indoor cat may become bored, restless, or even a little mischievous.
At 4Paws Pet Insurance, we know your cat is part of the family and you only want the best for them. We’ve put together a guide to keeping indoor kitties entertained, active and content.
Playtime with purpose
Cats love to hunt, chase and pounce, even if their ‘prey’ is a toy on a string. Aim for short but regular play sessions throughout the day. Here are some playtime aids you probably already have and might like to try.
- Wand toys and feathers mimic birds for high energy chases.
- Laser pointers keep them darting and dashing (make sure you finish with a tangible toy, so they feel they’ve caught something).
- Catnip mice or soft balls are perfect for batting and carrying around.
Remember playtime isn’t just fun, it keeps their muscles strong and minds moving.
Climbing, scratching and perching
It won’t come as a surprise that cats adore vertical spaces. Giving them places to climb and perch will let them survey their kingdom (a.k.a. your living room) with pride. Here are some ideas to try out.
- Invest in a cat tree or shelves they can climb.
- Place perches near windows so they can watch the outside world.
- Provide scratching posts to protect your furniture and keep claws healthy.
Puzzles for paws and minds
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical play. Puzzle feeders and treat dispensing toys encourage your cat to problem solve, keeping boredom at bay. Read on for our top suggestions.
- Try slow-feeding bowls for meal times.
- Use interactive puzzle toys to hide treats.
- Rotate toys weekly to keep things fresh.
Add a touch of nature indoors
Bring the outside in! Safe greenery and sensory play help your cat connect with their instincts and the outside world.
- Invest in cat grass or catnip pots for them to nibble on.
- Boxes, paper bags, or tunnels are great for hiding and pouncing.
- A safe window seat will mean they can watch the falling leaves or birds.
The art of a cosy corner
Cats love to play but they also need calm and peaceful spaces. Evenings are perfect for creating a snug den and here’s how you can do it.
Line a box or basket with cosy blankets. Place the box somewhere quiet and warm or let your cat choose their favourite spot – they’re experts in comfort!
Keeping an indoor cat active and engaged is all about balance: bursts of play, opportunities for climbing and scratching, plus quiet cosy corners to snooze the day away. By mixing enrichment, play, and comfort, you’ll help your feline friend thrive indoors.