The evidence base for feline behavioral enrichment is growing, with specific interventions shown to reduce stress, increase positive behaviors, and improve physiological welfare indicators in cats.
The evidence base for behavioral enrichment demonstrates that cats in enriched environments have objectively better welfare - lower stress hormones, more behavioral diversity, and fewer abnormal behaviors. This is not merely speculation but documented physiological and behavioral measurement. The implication is that cats in unenriched environments are experiencing measurably worse welfare than the evidence-based ideal. Cat owners have both the knowledge and practical tools to significantly improve their cats' welfare through relatively inexpensive enrichment interventions. The evidence base should motivate action rather than remaining academic knowledge disconnected from practical cat keeping.