Can household items work for cat enrichment?
Written by
Victoria Hayes
Reviewed by
Prof. Edward Clarke, Ph.D.Household items can be used as enrichment for your cat with minimal expense. By utilizing things found around the house, you can appeal to your cat's instincts. My cats always seem to choose a cardboard box over a bed bought from the store. Using common household items is a good way to create cognitive enrichment.
Cardboard Boxes
- Create entry points for hide-and-seek games
- Arrange in tunnel formations for exploration
- Add crumpled paper for rustling sounds
Paper Rolls
- Stuff with treats for treat-dispensing puzzles
- Tape together for interactive mazes
- Hide catnip inside for scent discovery
Textile Forts
- Drape blankets over chairs for instant caves
- Place familiar-scented clothing inside
- Add crinkle materials for auditory stimulation
Frozen Treats
- Freeze broth in ice cube trays for batting
- Use shallow pans for pawing activities
- Add catnip for extra enticement
Paper Balls
- Crumple receipts or junk mail for chasing
- Vary sizes for different hunting challenges
- Toss up stairs for jumping exercise
Replace these items on a weekly basis to maintain interest. I switch out configurations on Sunday mornings. Layer objects to create challenges (e.g., paper balls inside boxes). This practice also encourages the avoidance of habituation while engaging multiple senses simultaneously.
Pay attention to your cat's specific preferences when deciding what activities to customize. For example, while some cats enjoy batting frozen treats, others prefer burrowing into forts or tunnels. As my cats have gotten older, they have developed particular preferences for activities. Safety should always be a top priority, so avoid using small objects that can be ingested.
These essentially free solutions provide significant value. They activate hunting instincts when cats chase and forage. They give a sense of safety with their hiding areas. You can easily get started by offering just one item, and you will quickly see an uptick in your cat's engagement and activity.
Read the full article: Essential Cat Enrichment Activities Guide
