Enrichment is defined as providing animals with the environmental stimuli needed to satisfy their natural instincts. This promotes physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. As with most animals, the same goes for your kittens.
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So if you’re wondering, “why does my cat meow so much?”, a possible answer is that they are simply bored. Bored cats may exhibit other unwanted behaviors like scratching and potty accidents, they may also become reclusive or aggressive.
As such, it is important that you provide your furry friends with an environment that is fun and exciting. In this article, you’ll find some of the best cat enrichment toys to entertain your kitten.
Psst… If you’re a new kitty parent, check out this article on how to raise kittens and the basics of caring for your new pet.
Cat Enrichment Toys: What to Look For
Cats require mental and physical stimulation. This stimulation includes play and a selection of engaging toys. Choosing the right toys goes a long way in ensuring a happy and healthy kitty. Below are several factors to consider when looking for the best cat toys for indoor cats.
Safety
When it comes to choosing a good toy, especially for solo playtime, safety comes first. Cats are chewers and love to tear things up. Ensure there are no loose strings, sharp pieces, or glued-on parts that could end up being swallowed. Also, make a habit of inspecting your cat’s toys for any loose components, wires, or clamps.
Durability
It is also important to ensure that the toy is durable so it lasts many play sessions. Today, cat toys can be more expensive and are generally made with better quality materials. But to be safe, always read the reviews beforehand.
Enrichment for Cats
There are different types of enrichment for cats to keep in mind when looking for the perfect toy. These include environmental, social, and cognitive.
Environmental enrichment allows your cat to express its natural behaviors and instincts by stimulating its senses. Social enrichment refers to interactive play, and cognitive enrichment gets your cat to use their mind.
It is best to provide your kitty with toys that satisfy each type of enrichment for proper development.
Type of Cat Toy
Different types of cat toys provide different types of enrichment. To fulfill your cat’s needs, it is best to provide them with a variety of toys. Some options include chew toys, scratch posts, chase toys, catnip toys, and puzzles for cats.
If you do not want to buy too many toys, you can also create some fun for your cat with everyday household objects. A fun and interactive DIY cat enrichment idea is to set up an obstacle course made with paper bags and cardboard boxes. After all, kitties love to explore.
Stimulating & Interactive Cat Toys Reviewed
An enriching environment will ensure your cat stays happy and healthy. Below are some of the best enrichment toys for cats.
Turbo Track Ball & Scratch Pad Cat Toy with Catnip
Our cat loves this toy. It has a scratch pad on the top so the cat can sit or play on top and scratch away. You can even sprinkle it with catnip, if they like it.
The real star of the show is the ball that runs around a track in the middle of the toy. Our cat sits there for hours batting around the ball and following it as it slides around. She also really likes the toy on a string that gets placed on a rod on the side of the toy.
Pros:
- Mentally engaging
- Good for single cat household
- Keeps her attention for hours
Cons:
- Replacement pads are expensive
- Can fall apart quickly if your cat plays with it alot
Petstages Tower of Tracks
The Petstages Tower of Tracks is a great option for playful cats. This kitten toy comprises three levels, each with a circular track and ball. It also features a non-slip base, making it ideal for vigorous play.
This is one of the best toys for indoor cats as it allows them to chase, swat, and bat as they race around the track trying to catch the bright-colored balls.
Pros:
- Mentally engaging
- Good for single or multiple cat households
- Sturdy construction and non-slip base
Cons:
- Older cats may not find it exciting
- The ball tends to fall out
Trixie Cat Activity Feeder
This is an entertainment board with five different games that allow for both physical exercise and mental stimulation. By solving the various games, your cat is rewarded with tasty treats.
Some of the games include a fishbowl which requires your cat to scoop out cat food with its paw, and a tunnel to hide treats or toys under.
Pros:
- Physical exercise and mental stimulation
- Non-slip rubber base
- Suitable for older cats as well
Cons:
- Some games may be too challenging
- Not ideal for kittens
Kitty City Cat Tunnel & Bed
This stimulating cat toy features both a large cat tunnel and a cushion bed. So after a fun adventure, your kitten can catch a snooze. This product is especially great for multiple cats as they can chase one another through the tunnel.
While the tunnel is tons of fun, it is not the most durable, and kittens may end up tearing away at the inside. It is best not to leave your kittens unsupervised with this product.
Pros:
- Great for multiple cats
- Cat can sleep on the cushion bed or inside
- Can be turned into a round or moon-shaped tunnel
Cons:
- Not the most durable
- Not ideal for playful kittens (unless supervised)
Go Pet Club Cat Tree
The Go Pet Club Cat Tree is a fun playhouse for your adorable feline. It provides your cat with a space of its own to rest and play.
Your cat can jump from one platform to the next or scratch away at the sisal fabric post. There is also a quiet and roomy condo where your cat can nap without any disruptions.
Pros:
- Comfortable and durable
- Beautiful design
- Suitable for kittens and older cats
Cons:
- Hammock falls off easily
- Corners are sharp
Cat Dancer Rainbow Cat Charmer
The Rainbow Cat Charmer is a simple, effective, and great way to get some playtime in with your little kitty. It is a durable wand with an attractive, multicolored ribbon.
This interactive cat toy is sure to have your cat jumping around as it tries to catch the rainbow fabric. If you have kids, it is also a great way for them to run around with their furry pals. Note that this toy is meant for interactive play sessions and should be put away when not playing.
Pros:
- Durable
- Safe and non-toxic
- Fun for kittens and older cats
Cons:
- Can become hazardous if broken
- Not ideal for solo playtime
Summary – Best Cat Toys for Bored Cats
Like humans, cats require interaction and mental and physical stimulation. A bored cat can quickly become unhappy, frustrated, or aggressive. As such, caring for our cats means providing them with enriching experiences.
To help you do so are plenty of fun and interactive toys. We hope that from this list, you were able to find something special for your kitty.
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