How to Have a Happy Cat: Feline Enrichment
- Olivia
- Sep 5
- 4 min read
Updated: Sep 10
"Cats believe you can make anything a toy if you have enough imagination."
If you’ve ever caught your cat batting your car keys off the table, wrestling a paper bag like it’s a wild animal, or launching themselves out of a laundry basket like a fighter jet, you know exactly what we mean.
Here at Newberry Animal Hospital, we hear it all the time - stories of cats getting into boxes they don’t fit in, chewing on plants they’re definitely not supposed to, or turning a sock into a full-scale wrestling match. Why? Because to a cat, anything is a toy if they put their mind to it.
But while these antics can be hilarious (and occasionally chaotic), they also hint at something important: your cat craves stimulation. Play and exercise aren’t just for fun - they’re essential for your cat’s health and happiness. And the good news is, you don’t have to surrender your shoelaces or couch corners to keep them entertained! Let’s dive into some of the best toys and activities you can offer your cat to keep their brain busy, body active, and mischievous paws out of trouble.
Why Play Matters for Cats
Play isn’t just about burning energy - it taps into your cat’s natural instincts to stalk, chase, pounce, and hunt. It keeps them physically fit, mentally sharp, and emotionally satisfied. Without proper stimulation, cats can become bored, anxious, or even develop unwanted behaviors like scratching furniture or excessive meowing.
For indoor cats especially, structured playtime is essential. Without access to the ever-changing sights and smells of the outdoors, indoor cats rely on you to make their environment fun and enriching.
Top Toys to Keep Your Cat Engaged
1. Interactive Wand Toys
Shop: Pet Fit For Life
Wand toys with feathers, bells, or plush animals attached to the end mimic prey and encourage jumping, pouncing, and stalking. These are ideal for interactive play sessions with your cat and help strengthen your bond. Tip: Vary the motion! Mimic the erratic movement of a bird or mouse to really capture your cat’s attention.
2. Puzzle Feeders & Treat Dispensers
These toys combine brainwork and food rewards. They challenge your cat to work for their treats or kibble, turning mealtime into a mental workout. Some of the most popular options are food-dispensing balls, puzzle boards, and slow feeders with compartments or hidden areas.
3. Electronic Motion Toys
Battery-operated toys that scurry, wiggle, or spin on their own can trigger your kitty’s hunting instincts and are great for solo play, especially when you’re busy.
4. Nocturnal Toys
Did you know that cats are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk? This means that when you are trying to fall asleep or just waking up, your kitty’s desire for playtime is just starting. Opting for a toy that glows in the dark or even one that lights up when pawed at can help your cat stay stimulated even when you’re catching your z’s.
5. Catnip Toys
Soft toys infused with catnip can encourage solo play, rolling, kicking, and wrestling. Just be sure to rotate them out regularly so your cat doesn’t lose interest and limit how much catnip they are exposed to - ingestion of the herb in large amounts can result in gastrointestinal signs like vomiting or diarrhea for your feline friend.
*Newberry Animal Hospital does not receive any additional compensation from the sale of any above-linked toys. Please use at your discretion and always supervise your cat when introducing a new toy.
Activities That Boost Your Cat’s Brain
In addition to toys, hands-on play and training sessions can play a big role in keeping your cat mentally sharp. The following cat-friendly activities can be done for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times per day and will be monumental in both tiring out your kitty’s brain and strengthening your bond with them:
Hide and Seek: Hide your cat’s favorite toys or treats around the house. Encourage them to “hunt” using their nose and paws.
Clicker Training: Yes, cats can be trained! Use a clicker and small treats to teach simple commands like “sit,” “high five,” or even “come.” This is a fantastic mental exercise and great for bonding.
Vertical Space Exploration: Install cat trees, shelves, or window perches. Cats love climbing and observing from above, and vertical movement adds to their daily exercise. Tip: Install a birdhouse or bird feeder outside your cat's favorite window for hours of effortless mental enrichment for your feline friend!
Rotation of Toys: Just like kids, cats can get bored with the same toys. Rotate their selection weekly to keep things fresh and exciting - and remember to always supervise when introducing a new set of toys. We want to keep our feline friends happy and safe!
When your kitty’s playtime is over, it is always a good idea to end with a calming activity, like petting or grooming, to help your cat wind down.
What if My Cat Doesn’t Want to Play?
Not every cat loves to play - and that’s okay! Every pet is different, and a lack of interest in toys or activity does not necessarily mean that something is wrong with them. However, while some cats have more love for play than others, a sudden change in their activity level can indicate the beginning of an underlying health issue. If you have questions or concerns about recent changes in your cat’s behavior, weight, or wellness, we’re here to help you figure out why. Schedule an appointment for your furry friend at any of our locations below.
Let’s Keep Those Whiskers Twitching! Play is more than fun - it’s a vital part of your cat’s health and happiness. By choosing the right toys and making time each day to engage your cat’s body and mind, you’re giving them the stimulation they crave and the care they deserve.
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