Indoor cats have learned that they are the bosses of our households, and we are their mere subjects. However, cats have not always been so thoroughly pampered. Even the most spoiled indoor cats have natural instincts from their wild ancestors that need to be satisfied so they can live their best lives. Our team at Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital has compiled a list of several enrichment activities you can provide to keep your indoor cat safe, but let them explore their wild side. 

Add climbing surfaces to your home

Cats naturally seek higher vantage points so they can safely observe what’s going on in your home. However,  you may not want to let your cat lounge on the kitchen counter or scale your living room shelves.  A few alternate climbing resources you can provide include: 

  • Cat trees — Cat trees come in many shapes and sizes, and with a variety of features to suit your cat’s tastes. They range from three feet tall to ceiling height, and some come with multiple perches,  hiding spots, a ladder, built-in toys, or scratching posts. Learn what your cat responds to most, and soon they’ll be channeling their inner monkey. 
  • Floating shelves — While less common, floating shelves or perches mounted along the walls allow your cat to jump from one to the next, or enjoy an afternoon cat nap in a safe spot. Cats love to be involved in family time (albeit from a safe distance), so the more rooms with shelves, the better! 

Provide your cat with toys they can “hunt”

Cats have a natural instinct to hunt smaller animals and insects, which is how their predecessors survived in the wild. Toys that will replicate the excitement of the hunt include: 

  • Motorized mice — Letting your cat stalk a motorized mouse is a great way to keep them active and stimulate their brain. The chase will have them feeling like they are hunting live prey and will keep their pouncing skills up to par. 
  • Wands — Long sticks with dangling feathers or toys can entertain your cat (and you!) during long play sessions. By dragging and flipping the “prey,” you can quickly draw out your cat’s natural hunting abilities. 
  • Puzzle games and feeders — Puzzles and feeders that distribute treats as a reward are ideal for keeping your cat’s cognitive abilities sharp. The treats they earn reward them for a successful hunt and ensure they’ll be eager to play the next time the puzzle comes out. 

Give your cat approved scratching surfaces 

If you’ve noticed your cat scratching up your chairs and couches, it’s not because they hate your furniture taste. Cats need to scratch for many reasons, including maintaining their nail length, marking their territory with scent from their paw glands, and stretching out their bodies.  Providing appropriate alternatives will allow your cat to scratch to their heart’s desire without sacrificing your furniture. Scratching posts come in many different varieties, and you can learn your cat’s preferences by trying out a few options. Scratching posts can be: 

  • Vertical — Upright scratching posts should be at least as tall as your cat’s length, to allow them a full-body stretch. Vertical posts can also double as a climbing structure for your cat. 
  • Horizontal — Horizontal scratching surfaces provide a way for your cat to file down their nails. 

Scratching posts can be made from wood, carpet, cardboard, or sisal. We recommend letting your cat explore each material so they can decide what they like best. You can also sprinkle catnip on the scratching post to pique your cat’s interest. 

Allow your cat to hide

Cats may hide because they are afraid, but in your safe home, this is often not the case. Cats like to hide in small spaces simply because it’s comfortable for them and gives them a sense of security. Your cat may hide in your closet, under the bed, or under your blankets. You can give them additional places to hide comfortably by providing: 

  • Covered hiding spots — A cat tree with a built-in covered perch can fulfill your cat’s needs to climb and hide. 
  • Kitty tents — Small pop-up tents provide your cat with a safe space to hide and nap. They come in many materials and colors to fit your taste and decor.
  • Cardboard boxes — Cats often enjoy hiding in cardboard boxes that have been turned on their sides. This refuge allows your cat to observe their surroundings while feeling protected from behind. 

Cats are happiest when they can indulge their inner lion in the safety of your home. These tips will allow your cat to express their natural instincts safely—and help you plan your next trip to the pet store! If you have questions about your cat’s behavior or need to schedule their next wellness visit, contact our Sonoran Sky Pet Hospital team.