As much as cats love to snooze, they are also natural hunters and problem-solvers with a need for mental stimulation. Making sure our kitties have enough mental stimulation contributes to their well-being and provides a great outlet for all of the energy they save while sleeping!
There are many games that can provide mental stimulation for cats, which can also encourage exercise and strengthen the bond between you and your feline friend. You can improve their cognitive functions and promote problem-solving skills all from the comfort of your home, with a range of DIY games.
A busy cat is a happy cat, and in this blog, you can find out how to turn your home into a feline fun zone with these simple brain games!
Creating a DIY brain game for your cat provides mental stimulation, which offers a whole host of cognitive and physical benefits. Playtime is important for cats of all ages and should be a part of their daily routine.
Some of the main benefits of mental stimulation for cats include:
Simple objects you have around your home can be transformed into fun and exciting DIY mental stimulation games for cats. You can use household items like cardboard boxes, paper bags, toilet rolls and more!
Here are five fun and simple DIY cat brain games you can try:
The “find the toy” game is one of the easiest activities to promote mental situation for your cat. It’s as simple as hiding their kibble, treats or favourite toys in a room for them to find. Start easy, then gradually hide items in harder to find places to give your cat a bit more of a challenge.
This game uses their natural curiosity and allows them to navigate their environment in a stimulating way, keeping their minds active and engaged while they’re having fun.
Puzzle toys provide a great form of mental stimulation for cats, as they encourage natural behaviours, allowing them to use their strong sense of smell and problem-solving skills to get to the tasty treats.
Not only are they excellent for keeping your cat entertained, but they’re also very easy to make. Simply take an empty egg box and place treats or small toys in a few of the compartments. Then, scrunch some small bits of newspaper and cover the treats with them. Finally, let your kitty search and sniff to find the hidden treats!
A treat dispenser is another way to encourage mental stimulation for cats and is also an effective DIY kitten toy. It offers an outlet for physical activity, promotes problem-solving, and can even help cats eat more like they naturally do.
For this brain game, start with a toilet roll tube and use scissors to cut flaps at both ends. Fold each set of flaps inward to close off one end of the tube. Then, place some of your cat’s favourite treats before closing off the other end. Next, cut some holes in the tube large enough for the treats to be dispensed. Give it to your kitty and watch them bat, roll and run around to retrieve the delicious treats.
This DIY cat mental stimulation game is perfect for any furry friends that love to explore and pounce. It also fulfils their natural instincts, while the box gives them a safe and enclosed space where they can feel comfortable. This sense of security makes it a great DIY toy for kittens or cats that are adapting to a new home.
Firstly, grab a few cardboard boxes and tape them together or place them next to each other to form a maze. Next, cut some small windows, a door and some other holes for exploring. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even decorate the outside to create your own kitty castle!
Finally, place some treats or their favourite toys somewhere for them to find.
Like a DIY cat puzzle, a paper bag surprise toy lets your cat hunt for treats while encouraging physical exercise such as batting and pouncing. Cats also enjoy the crinkly sound of a paper bag, which can stimulate curiosity and provide entertainment.
All you’ll need for this DIY is a paper bag, a toy or some treats. You can connect multiple paper bags together with tape or use a single bag on its own. Place or toy or treat inside the paper bag and let your cat investigate. Try adding other items, like a ping pong ball or hidden rewards, to add intrigue and make it extra fun!
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