Whatever the reason or reasons are, slaves of indoor kitties must make extra efforts to ensure their fur-ever friend’s life is rich, fulfilling and stimulating (if they don’t want to be meow-dered in their sleep). Listed below are some suggestions for human kitty coolies who want to live to see another day:
Food:
Hide kitty’s food in a different spot every day, or better yet, break it up into three portions and hide them each in different locations. Alternatively, feed your cat from a Kitty Kong, which requires batting and pouncing for automatic release of food.
Water:
Don’t stop kitty from drinking from a fish bowl or tank. Or consider getting a cat fountain so kitty can have something all cats love … running water, which is always cooler than still water.
Amusements:
Hang a bird feeder near a window and install a perch so kitty can watch the birds go by. A planter box with flowering plants will attract many butterflies and ladybugs: all great to watch. A nice tank of fresh water fish or a couple of rodents (gerbils or hamsters in cages which are SECURE) can also make for fascinating viewing.
Exercise:
Excellent-quality cat trees are essential these days. Shelves placed high on the walls and suspended planks can also add interest, and provide exercise opportunities for all kitties. Getting kitty to chase and hunt feather toys should also be part of a cat’s daily routine. Ensure the toys are cat-safe; look for vegetable dyes and dispose of damaged toys immediately to avoid risk of injury to your cat(s.). Cats can choke on broken bits, just like children.
And as for treats, toss cat treats around the room and make kitty run for them. Kitties also like laser pointers,(the almighty red dot,) and bubble guns. If you have a green finger, cultivate a few pots of cat mint and bring in a pot for kitty to chew on every now and then.
Lots of great ideas!