10 Easy Ways to Keep Your Cat Entertained and Happy While You’re at Work
Leaving your cat at home while you are out for work can be hard, especially if you’re worried about whether or not they will be happy and comfortable. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your cat entertained and happy during the times when you can’t be with them. Here are 10 easy tips to consider:
1. Provide enough toys
With a variety of toys, your cat will never get bored. Try providing toys with different textures, scents, and even sounds. Puzzle toys, balls, and stuffed animals can keep your cat entertained for hours, and laser pointers can provide endless entertainment for your furry friend.
2. Create a window perch
Cats love gazing out of windows and keeping an eye on the world outside. Consider setting up a window perch near a sunny window where your cat can lounge and watch the world go by. Make sure it’s a safe and secure spot, so your cat won’t fall or get injured.
3. Use Catnip
Catnip is a herb that can stimulate your cat and make playtime more fun. If your cat is not sensitive to Catnip, it can be a great tool to keep them motivated and engage them in fun activities. But keep it in small doses because too much Catnip can make your feline friend sleepy and lethargic.
4. Provide scratching posts and perches
Scratching is a natural instinct for cats, and it’s important to provide them with a suitable surface to scratch. Consider buying a scratching post or a cat tree. This way, your cat can scratch away and exercise their hunting and climbing skills while you’re away.
5. Arrange for a seating perch
If you have enough space, consider setting up a seating perch for your cat to watch you during dinner, work or conversation. That way, they can be in the same room as you and feel included even if you’re not actively engaging with them.
6. Try some interactive feeders
Interactive feeders are a great way to keep your cat occupied and energized during the day. This can be anything from a simple puzzle ball to a food-dispensing toy. The challenge of getting the food out of the toy keeps your cat active and busy, and it’s an excellent opportunity to reduce their food intake and prevent boredom eating.
7. Leave something familiar behind
Leaving behind an item with your scent can help keep your cat calm and comforted while you’re away. It can be anything from a blanket to your worn shirt. This will remind your cat that you’ll be back soon and ease their separation anxiety.
8. Keep the litter box tidy
Some cats refuse to use an unclean litter box, and this can lead to accidents and unpleasant odor in the house. To avoid this, make sure you clean the litter box before you leave for work each day. This will keep your cat comfortable and ensure that everything stays hygienic while you’re away.
9. Provide Cat TV
Cats love watching birds and other animals, and you can create your very own cat TV by installing a bird feeder outside your window. If you can’t install the bird feeder, consider a YouTube channel dedicated to videos of birds and other animals. This will keep your cat engaged and distracted while you’re away.
10. Keep the environment safe
Cats are curious creatures and love to explore their surroundings. Make sure that your home is a safe and healthy environment for them. Ensure that all electrical cords are stored away, any poisonous chemicals are out of reach, and that they can’t get outside or access anything hazardous.
In conclusion, leaving your cat home alone need not be a source of anxiety for you. With the right toys, environment, and precautions, you can ensure that your beloved pet stays entertained, happy, and healthy even while you’re away at work.