Puzzles & Pets

It's true, the intersection of puzzling and pet ownership can be both endearing and, at times, a bit frustrating! Let's dive into the fascinating world of puzzles and pets, especially cats, and practical solutions to common issues.

Why Cats Love Puzzles (and Dogs... Not So Much)

It's a common lament among puzzlers: the elusive missing piece often turns out to be a cat's latest trophy!

• • Cats and Attention: Cats are notorious for wanting to be the center of attention. A large, flat surface with small, moving objects that you are intensely focused on? That's an irresistible invitation for a cat to plop down right in the middle, batting pieces and generally asserting their dominance over your hobby.

  • The Hunter's Instinct: More fundamentally, cats are predators. Those small, lightweight puzzle pieces mimic tiny prey. They move easily, making them perfect for playful "hunting" behaviors like pouncing, batting, and carrying off. Some cats will indeed "hoard" their "kills" in special, secret locations – making finding those missing pieces even more of a challenge!

  • Dogs and Puzzles: Dogs, by contrast, generally aren't drawn to the intricate nature of puzzle pieces for play. However, their curiosity, coupled with their propensity to mouth objects, means they might see puzzle pieces as chew toys. As you mentioned, they might enjoy the taste more than the game, which can lead to damaged pieces!

How to Keep Your Cat Away from Your Puzzle

Protecting your puzzle from a curious cat often requires a multi-pronged approach, as most deterrents are, as you noted, temporary. Cats are persistent!

Physical Barriers & Covers

• Total Isolation: The most effective, albeit sometimes impractical, solution is to dedicate a separate, cat-free room for puzzling. If that's not possible, consider a large crate or playpen for the cat during active puzzling sessions, or even for the puzzle itself if it's on a portable board.

• Impermeable Covers:

  • • Plastic sheeting, thick towels, or a tablecloth: These are readily available and can be draped over the puzzle when not in use.

    • Aluminum Foil: Many cats dislike the crinkly sound and texture of aluminum foil, making it a surprisingly effective, though possibly temporary, deterrent when laid over the puzzle.

    • Bed Sheet: A simple bed sheet can provide a quick, lightweight cover.

• Specialized Puzzle Gear:

  • Tri-fold Presentation Board: Excellent for smaller puzzles, allowing you to fold it up and move the puzzle easily.

  • Puzzle Mat/Roll-up Mat: These are designed to let you roll up your in-progress puzzle for storage. Ensure it's rolled tightly so pieces don't fall out.

  • Puzzle Board with a Cover: Many puzzle boards come with a fitted cover or a separate board that slides on top, offering solid protection.

  • Puzzle Case/Carrier: For complete portability and protection, a dedicated puzzle case allows you to store the puzzle securely.

  • Puzzle Tray with High Sides: A tray with raised edges can help contain pieces and prevent them from being batted off the table. A lid for this tray adds further security.

  • Puzzle Table with a Cover: If you have a dedicated puzzle table, one with a built-in cover or a custom-made cover is ideal.

Deterrents (Use with Caution)

• • Double-Sided Tape: Cats dislike the sticky sensation on their paws. Placing strips of double-sided tape around the edge of your puzzling area can create a "no-go" zone.

  • Citrus-Scented Spray: Many cats are averse to citrus smells. A diluted citrus-scented spray (ensure it's safe for surfaces and won't stain) around the perimeter might deter them.

Distraction & Positive Reinforcement

• • Plenty of Interactive Toys: Ensure your cat has ample opportunities for play and mental stimulation away from the puzzle. Engage them with wand toys, laser pointers (ending with a physical toy to "catch"), or puzzle feeders before you start puzzling.

  • Dedicated Cat Space: Provide a comfortable, elevated spot (like a cat tree or window perch) near your puzzling area where your cat can observe without interfering.

Cleaning Pet and Human Hair from Puzzles

It's a common challenge, especially with used puzzles or in homes with pets! Nobody wants unidentified hairs or dust sticking to their pristine puzzle.

• • Initial Shake-Out: Gently shaking the open box or pieces in a colander (if you're brave!) can help dislodge loose debris before you even start.

  • Lint Roller: This is your best friend for quickly picking up pet hair, lint, and fuzz from the flat surface of the pieces. It's less effective for long, individual human hairs.

  • Soft Brush & Static Spray: For more embedded pet hair or long strands, a clean, soft makeup brush or a soft toothbrush can work wonders. A light spritz of anti-static spray on the brush can enhance its ability to lift fibers.

  • Compressed Air: A can of compressed air (like for cleaning keyboards) is excellent for blowing away dust and loose debris from between pieces or off the surface. Hold it at a slight angle and not too close to avoid damaging the cardboard.

  • Mini Vacuum: A small, handheld vacuum with a brush attachment can be very effective for sucking up hair, dust, and tiny bits of debris without risking damage to the puzzle pieces themselves.

Keeping Your Puzzle Hair-Free in the Future

Prevention is key!

• • Store Puzzles Securely: Once a puzzle is completed or if you're storing an unstarted one, place the pieces in zip-top bags inside the original box. This creates an extra barrier against dust, dander, and curious paws.

  • Cover When Not Working: Always use a puzzle board with a cover or simply drape a clean sheet, plastic, or foam board over your in-progress puzzle when you step away.

  • Designated Pet-Free Zone: Try to establish a "no-pets" rule for your immediate puzzling area. This might involve a specific room or simply training your pets to stay off the puzzle table.

  • Hand Hygiene: Always wash your hands before puzzling. Natural oils and lotions on your hands can make hair, lint, and dust stick more easily to the cardboard pieces.

Final Thoughts

By implementing these strategies, you can minimize the "puzzles and pets" conundrum and ensure a cleaner, more enjoyable puzzling experience for yourself!