Companion Animals

Companion Cat Enrichment for Indoor-Only Cats

Indoor-only cats require thoughtful environmental enrichment to meet their behavioural needs and prevent boredom-related welfare problems.

Key Facts

Cats spend 40-60% of time resting but need active stimulation periods daily
Vertical space through cat trees and shelves meets climbing and observation needs
Food puzzles and foraging toys engage hunting instincts and reduce boredom
Window access to outdoor stimuli including bird feeders provides important enrichment

Welfare Considerations

Indoor cats without adequate enrichment show abnormal repetitive behaviours, over-grooming, redirected aggression, and depression. Meeting feline behavioural needs indoors requires deliberate effort but profoundly improves welfare.

What You Can Do

Provide at least one active play session daily with interactive toys
Add vertical space through cat trees, shelves, and climbing routes
Use food puzzles to make mealtimes mentally engaging