It’s a big misconception that cats are low maintenance. And that’s why cat boredom can be such a big problem. And this is something that anyone with a cat should avoid.
Why Should You Care If Your Cat Is Bored?
Boredom is unhealthy, dangerous, and can destroy your relationship with your cat (and possibly some of your furniture or knickknacks).
The way cats behave due to boredom falls into two main categories:
1. The sad cat. This is the cat that lies down all day, sleeping. Yes, cats can sleep up to 16 hours a day, but you should still see your cat have periods of being awake, active, and energetic. A bored cat just lying around is depressed and unhappy.
Additionally, if a cat does nothing but nap, they are extremely unstimulated, and their inactivity will eventually cause health issues, just as it does in humans. Understimulated cats sometimes become habitual groomers, causing hairballs and baldness. They can gain an unhealthy amount of weight, lose muscle tone, have heart and circulation issues and have a shorter life span.
2. The crazy cat. This is the cat that always seems to be in trouble. You can kiss that pretty vase because they’re bound to knock it over. Don’t congratulate yourself on how well you hid treats because your cat will figure out how to get into that cabinet. And if they can’t because you put a lock on it, they’ll do something else to get your attention. They scream, they scratch the furniture, are often seen, jump on the kitchen counter to “help” prepare food…you name it. If you’re mad, they do.
These cats are also understimulated. But instead of hanging around, they go out hunting for their own pleasure. Often younger, more energetic and more curious than their lonely siblings, these people can be disruptive…and destructive.
Crazy cats also drive their people crazy, and their behavioral issues can be very difficult to handle. But the good news is that with some changes, you don’t have to handle it. Because the solution to cat boredom is actually quite simple.
The Number One Solution to Cat Boredom
If you’re thinking, “He’ll definitely say spend more time with your cat,” you’re right! But it doesn’t have to be a heavy time commitment. Even 15 minutes of interactive playtime can help to alleviate boredom.
Most cats respond well to interactive play with their humans, and begin to depend on this activity. If your cat is reluctant to play, or seems confused, you may have the wrong toy.
Every cat has its own play preferences, and even these can change over time. A cat may like chasing flying toys. Others may want to hunt something that crawls on the ground. Some may be happy chasing ping pong balls or small fuzzy mice. Catnip kicker might work. If you don’t yet know your cat’s preferred play style, give them a few options until you find one that fits.
What If My Cat Doesn’t Want to Play?
Almost all cats, unless they have health issues, are playful in their senior years. If your cat doesn’t want to play, and checked out okay with your vet, it’s possible he forgot how. Or you just haven’t hit on the right toy. If they love treats, you can do this by tossing treats and letting them chase the goodies. That way, they get exercise, a reward, and quality time with you, all at the same time.
More Ways to Excite a Bored Cat
Scheduling regular game times is just the beginning, of course. You can’t always be there. In fact, you probably work, and even if you work from home, you’re not available for your cat 24/7. There are many ways to enhance your cat’s living environment to keep them happy and engaged. The important thing is to adapt it to your cat’s personal preferences.
Creating an Enticing Environment for Your Cat
An important part of offering your cat extra stimulation is tailoring it to their personality. An older cat might not want to jump on wall shelves, but your wild, year-old Bengal absolutely needs it! Cat trees are good for almost any cat, but think about what your cat would really like to have in them. Does it have a perch that will offer a perfect window view? Is it sturdy enough for a 20-lb cat? These are things to think about.
Cats can be great about keeping themselves busy, as long as they have toys that engage them. Many cats love having puzzle treats, and it stimulates their minds along with keeping them active. Catnip toys (or toys filled with other intoxicating cats) are pretty much everyone’s favorite, but they need to be rotated so they don’t break. Electronic toys are becoming more sophisticated all the time — make sure they’re safe for your cat.
Most importantly, make sure any toys, cat litter, or cat furniture you bring home is something your cat will find attractive. If you engage in interactive play with your cat, and observe his behavior throughout the day, you will get an idea of the types of activities he likes to do.
Other Ways to Fight Cat Boredom
There are two ways to keep your cat mentally and physically engaged. They are more advanced, and require a greater investment of time but they are also very useful.
1. Training your cat. Cats are bright, and they learn tricks really fast. Of course, tricks like High Fives and Shake Paws are fun and great to show off to your friends. But there are also practical tricks, like sitting and staying for a treat, that help if you want to stop your cat from flopping. If you have regular training sessions with your cat, this is also one of the best ways to bond with them.
2. Take them outside with a harness and leash. This requires a learning curve for you and your cat, but some cats really enjoy having the opportunity to explore the outdoors safely with your watch.
A Last Word About Your Crazy Cat
Is your crazy cat two years old or younger? Are they men? These cats tend to be out of control freaks, and the good news is that they eventually outgrow this phase. At least, most of them do! But instead of white-knuckling it this time, use some of the methods above to engage with them and keep them focused. Use that extra energy, figuratively, if not literally.
Have you ever had a bored cat? How did you deal with them? Let us know in the comments.
