Winter can be challenging for keeping your cat entertained and active, especially if they’re staying indoors. But don’t worry—there are plenty of creative ways to engage your feline friend, stimulate their instincts, and ensure they stay healthy during the colder months. Here are five fun and easy ways to exercise with your cat this winter!
1. Laser Pointer Treasure Hunt
Cats love chasing laser pointers, but why not take it a step further by adding a rewarding twist?
How It Works:Use a laser pointer to lead your cat around the room, mimicking the thrill of a hunt. Finish by directing the laser to a treat or toy your cat can "catch" at the end.
Why It’s Great:This activity keeps your cat physically active while engaging their natural hunting instincts. Adding a tangible reward makes it even more satisfying for them.
2. Vertical Play Areas
Cats love climbing and perching in high places—it helps them feel safe and in control of their environment.
How to Create One: Use cat trees, shelves, or window perches to provide vertical climbing opportunities. Arrange them so your cat can move between levels, jump, or simply rest in an elevated spot.
Why It’s Great: Climbing and jumping keep your cat’s muscles strong, provide enrichment, and satisfy their instinctual need for high vantage points.
Pro Tip: Place a perch near a window so your cat can watch birds and other outdoor activity.
3. Indoor Obstacle Course
Turn your home into an adventure playground for your cat by setting up an obstacle course!
How to Create One: Use cardboard boxes, cushions, and furniture to build tunnels, jumps, and hiding spots. Add toys or treats at different points to encourage exploration.
Why It’s Great: Obstacle courses are a fun way to provide exercise and mental stimulation, especially for active or curious cats.
DIY Tip: Use household items like laundry baskets or paper bags to keep it simple and cost-effective.
4. Foraging Treats
Cats love to hunt for their food, and you can recreate this experience indoors with foraging games.
How It Works: Hide small treats or kibble in an egg carton, muffin tin, or under cups. Let your cat "hunt" for the rewards by sniffing them out or pawing at the containers.
Why It’s Great:Foraging games engage your cat’s problem-solving skills while keeping them entertained and active. It’s also an excellent way to slow down fast eaters!
DIY Idea: Create a snuffle mat by hiding treats in a piece of fabric with folds or pockets.
5. Cat TV
When you’re short on time or energy, cat-friendly videos can provide your pet with entertainment.
How It Works: Set up a screen to play videos of birds, fish, or other small animals. Many platforms, like YouTube, have channels dedicated to cat entertainment.
Why It’s Great: Watching videos satisfies your cat’s hunting instincts and keeps them engaged, even when they’re lounging indoors.
Pro Tip: Position the screen at eye level and supervise your cat to ensure they’re interacting safely.
Bonus: DIY Snow Play
If you’re lucky enough to get snow this winter, bring a little indoors for your cat to explore!
How It Works: Place a shallow tray of clean snow on the floor and let your cat dig, paw, or sniff. Hide small toys in the snow for extra fun.
Why It’s Great: Snow play provides a novel sensory experience for cats, stimulating their curiosity and encouraging physical movement.
Safety Tip: Ensure the snow is free of salt, grit, or chemicals before bringing it indoors.
Winter Safety Tips for Cats
Protect Outdoor Cats: If your cat ventures outside, ensure they have access to a warm, sheltered space to return to.
Keep Hydrated: Cats are notoriously fussy about water—encourage drinking with fresh water or a cat fountain.
Monitor Weight: Reduced activity during winter can lead to weight gain, so adjust their diet accordingly.
Winter doesn’t have to mean boredom for your cat. With these fun activities, you can keep them entertained, exercised, and healthy throughout the season. Need tailored advice for your feline friend? Book a £39 video consultation with Vetsy today and let our experts help you create the perfect plan for your cat!
