Everyone gets bored, cats included. However, long bouts of boredom that last days at a time aren’t healthy for people or cats. If you’re wondering what to do if your cat is bored, then rest assured that the solution could be as easy as making a few changes around your home.
How to Tell if Your Cat is Bored
Not sure if your cat is bored? The best way to tell is to compare its current behavior with behavior in the past. While active, happy cats might be inclined to play and explore, bored cats might spend their free time sleeping or overgrooming.
If your cat doesn’t seem engaged by playtime, snacks, or really anything that they used to enjoy, then they could be suffering from prolonged boredom.
6 Things to Do if Your Cat is Bored
Fortunately, breaking your cat out of boredom isn’t as hard as it sounds. Here are some of the best ways to help bored cats.
1. The More Cat Toys, The Better
Can cats ever have enough toys? Sometimes, providing your cat with some new playtime options can be all it takes to bring them out of their rut. New toys, or even newer versions of some of its favorite toys, can lead to hours of fun.
Consider getting a high-quality cat toy that simulates real-life prey. Moving and electronic cat toys, like cat fish toys that move, are perfect if you’re busy and don’t have enough time to regularly play with your cat.
2. Something Old, Something New
The solution to your cat’s boredom could be somewhere in your home! Old cat toys, perhaps some that you put away a while back, could do the trick. Other unused items, like old boxes, are perfect for piquing your cat’s interest.
Buying something new online — whether that be toys, a tunnel, or cat laser toys — means getting a box shipped. Not only does your cat get new toys, but a fun box is on the way! Cut holes in the box for toys, giving your cat something to pounce at.
3. Freshen Things Up with Catnip and Catgrass
Sometimes, natural solutions are the best. Catnip and catgrass are both plants that can provide entertainment for your cat.
Catnip is a mint-like plant that doesn’t do much for humans, but cats love it. Cats’ reactions to catnip vary, but most are stimulated from crushed catnip leaves. Catnip is even safe for kittens! You can find catnip at just about any pet store.
Catgrass, like catnip, is a plant that cats love, but for an entirely different reason. Many cats find catgrass to be a tasty treat, taking time to chomp away at the blades of grass. Other cats might have fun stalking through the tall grass. Catgrass is super easy to grow and is perfect for indoors and outdoors.
Related: Why do cats love catnip?
4. Create a Change of Scenery
A fresh new vista could help your cat break out of boredom. If there’s a window that is often covered or consistently out of reach for your cat, consider options to make that view available. A cat window perch provides a quick, easily collapsible option.
Another angle out of an existing window could help, too. For example a higher vantage point might help you cat view over obstacles outside. Try looking at things from their point of view to consider changes that might help.
5. Hunting for Cat Treats
Cats are natural hunters, but many house cats don’t have anything to hunt. An easy fix? Hide their favorite treats around your home in high places, under beds — essentially anywhere your cat might not normally go.
When your cat finds a treat hidden away, it can trigger a sense of achievement, as if they hunted down an easy snack. You’ll notice how quickly your cat scrambles around looking for more!
6. Consider Getting a Second Cat
Your cat’s boredom could be stemming from social shortcomings, and that could quickly be solved by getting your cat a new brother or sister.
Cats can provide each other endless entertainment, and they’re more than likely to bond. It’s nearly impossible to have two bored cats. Plus, you already have everything you need for one cat, so planning for a second cat should be quick and easy. Best of all, you’ll be saving a little life and giving it a loving home!
FAQs for Bored Cats
Cat toys, window perches, and even laser pointers can be great ways to keep a cat entertained. Every cat likes something different, so try out various options to see what your cat prefers.
If your cat is lethargic and bored but won’t play, it could be a sign of something more serious. Schedule a visit with your vet to get your cat checked.
Many cats enjoy TV! There are entire channels and YouTube videos dedicated to cats — especially those that love birds and squirrels!
- Can Cats Eat Crab Meat? - January 25, 2024
- Which Cats Are Hypoallergenic? - January 13, 2024
- What Does It Mean When A Cat Winks At You? - December 19, 2023