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Keeping an indoor cat happy and mentally stimulated is so important! Cats are natural hunters and explorers—even when they’re safe and cozy inside. Without enough enrichment, they can get bored, anxious, or even destructive. The good news? Enrichment doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Here are my top 10 favourite enrichment games and activities you can try at home to keep your indoor cat entertained, curious, and healthy.
Game 1: Treat puzzle toys.
Game 1: Treat puzzle toys.
Puzzle feeders encourage your cat to "hunt" for their food or treats. You can make your own with an empty egg carton or toilet paper rolls filled with kibble.
How to Play
Fill the puzzle with small treats
Show your cat how it works at first
Let them paw, nose and figure it out!
Game 2: Hide and seek treats.
Game 2: Hide and seek treats.
Turn treat time into a game by hiding treats around the house. This encourages natural foraging behaviour and keeps them moving.
How to Play
While they're not looking, hide small treats in easy-to-find spots
Encourage them to sniff them out
Make it harder as they get better
Game 3: Interactive Wand Toys.
Game 3: Interactive Wand Toys.
Nothing beats a classic feather wand or string toy for bringing out your cat's hunting instincts.
How to Play
Wiggle and drag the toy like prey
Let them stalk, pounce and "catch" it
Always finish with a successful catch to avoid frustration
Game 4: Cardboard box forts.
Game 4: Cardboard box forts.
Cats love boxes. Simple cardboard boxes can become a playground with just a few cuts and tape.
How to Play
Cut entry holes in boxes
Stack or tunnel them together
Hide toys or treats inside for exploring
Game 5: Laser pointer chases.
Game 5: Laser pointer chases.
Great for exercise! Just remember to end with a real toy they can "catch" so they don't get frustrated.
How to play
Move the dot unpredictably
Keep sessions short (5-10 mins)
Finish by rewarding with a toy or treat
Game 6: Catnip toys or mats.
Game 6: Catnip toys or mats.
Catnip or silvervine can make toys extra exciting for many cats.
How to play
Offer catnip-stuffed toys
Sprinkle dried catnip on scratching posts
Use catnip mats for rolling and rubbing
Game 7: Food-dispensing balls.
Game 7: Food-dispensing balls.
Purrfect for slow feeding and mental challenge.
How to play
Fill the ball with kibble or treats
Adjust the difficulty level
Let your cat bat it around to release food
Game 8: Window Watching Stations.
Game 8: Window Watching Stations.
Safe, stimulating fun for indoor cats who love to watch the world.
How to set up
Clear a windowsill
Add a comfy bed or perch
Optional bird feeder outside for cat TV
Game 9: Clicker Training
Game 9: Clicker Training
Yes-cats can learn tricks, too!
How to play
Use a clicker and treats
Teach simple behaviours like sit, high five or targeting
Reward immediately after the click
Game 10: DIY paper bag tunnels
Game 10: DIY paper bag tunnels
Cheap and easy enrichment!
How to play
Use large paper grocery bags
Cut entry/exit holes if needed
Place toys or treats inside for discovery
Final Tip
Final Tip
Rotate toys to keep things interesting! Putting some away for a week or two can make them exciting all over again. Your cat will thank you for the extra fun and stimulation, and you'll love watching them play, explore, and stay happy and healthy indoors. If you'd like personalised ideas for your pet, just reach out - I love helping families making their pets' lives the best they can be. 🐾✨
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