Enrichment means providing something novel for your cat, that they will enjoy and be curious about. It could be a new type of treat, a new toy, a puzzle feeder, maybe even taking them outside safely. As long as they benefit from it, that is what counts! They can benefit from it physically (agility or playtime), mentally (food puzzle or learning something new) and/or emotionally (spending extra time with them, finding a new way to interact with them that they enjoy, a new blanket, a new cuddle spot). Stimulate their senses!
Lately, our 9 yr old Rupert has been door dashing. We live in the country and prefer to keep our cats indoors, as there are coyotes in our area. So, I have brought some things that were outdoors to the indoors to provide that extra enrichment and stimulation for him. (He is also learning to come when called to keep him away from doors when they are opened).
Yesterday, I found some Canada Goose feathers and the cats really enjoyed them.
First, they were curious as to what these fluffy things were.
This feather stimulated all their senses: sight/visual, scent, touch/feel, taste and sound (when moved around). They all ended up playing with the feathers which was fun to see!
Mufasa, our 15 yr old, is still our most playful cat, as you will see in this video. He had a lot of fun inspecting and playing with the feather!
Want to learn more?
Wayside Waifs, a local no-kill shelter, offers e-learning classes. Their next one is actually about cat and dog enrichment. Be sure to check it out and register to attend! Click on the link below for more information.