5 Creative Ways to Keep Your Indoor Cat Active and Engaged on a Budget

 I Have an Indoor Cat. How Can I Keep him Entertained without Spending a Lot of Money?

 

You don't have to spend a "bajillion" dollars to keep your cat happy. These tried-and-true methods will keep your indoor cat entertained and active. 

 

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Why do Cats even need Indoor Entertainment?  

 

We can all agree that cats are naturally curious and intelligent, right? Cats need indoor entertainment and thrive on mental and physical stimulation. With a bit of creativity, you can create a fun and enriching environment for them without breaking the bank.

 

 Your cat not only needs mental and physical stimulation, but without adequate physical activity, indoor cats are at risk of obesity and related health problems such as diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. 

 

We are going to look at the problems associated with not enough indoor stimulation and the unwelcome behaviors it may bring on, with your cat. 

 

Fun Fact

Cats Can Recognize Their Name—They Just Pretend Not To! 

Cats can distinguish their name from other words. However, given their independent nature, they will only respond if they feel like it (or if food is involved!).

 

 

(Image Credit: Annmarie Holbrook) "Oreo"

 

In the wild, cats spend much of their time hunting, exploring, and problem-solving. Indoor cats, however, don't face these outdoor challenges. This can lead to boredom and may even cause certain health problems. 

 

Here are Signs That Your Cat May be Bored.

• Excessive Vocalizing 
• Weight gain from excessive eating
• Knocking over objects 
• Aggression 
• Shredding paper or scratching fabric/furniture
• Chewing on Cords or Plants
• Digging in potted plants
• Climbing where they shouldn't

 

Let's Cover the Why's and Look at Possible Solutions

 

Excessive Vocalizing

Cats love to communicate with their owners through vocalization. However, excessive vocalizing—such as persistent or loud meowing at unusual times—may be a sign of boredom or frustration.

Possible Solution:
Try playing with your cat for a few minutes. Introduce new toys to reduce stress. I like to rotate toys for my cats—it’s like introducing a brand-new toy every time, and they love it!

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Weight Gain from Excessive Eating

If you’re free-feeding your feline, this can lead to overeating and weight gain.

Possible Solution:
Try feeding your cat at designated times. I typically feed my cats in the morning and give them a small portion of dry or canned food in the evening. You can also offer enrichment treats placed in a toy. Check out this easy DIY treat recipe that you can make at home!

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Knocking Over Objects

Sometimes cats knock over objects out of frustration—or simply for fun! (Let’s face it, some cats enjoy this behavior!)

Possible Solution:
Redirect their curiosity by using interactive toys.

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Aggression

Aggressive behaviors such as excessive biting during play, pouncing on feet, or swatting at other pets or humans can be concerning.

Possible Solution:
Use wand toys to channel their hunting instincts and avoid using your hands as toys.

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Shredding Paper or Fabric (Like Furniture)

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats—they use it to mark territory, stretch, and maintain healthy claws. However, damaged furniture, carpets, and walls are not ideal scratching surfaces!

Possible Solution:
Provide a scratching post or pad near their favorite spots to redirect this behavior.

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Chewing on Cords and Plants

Frayed electrical cords, damaged houseplants, or bite marks on household items are sure signs that your cat might be the culprit. This could stem from boredom or, in kittens, teething.

Possible Solution:
Provide chew-safe toys and ensure harmful plants or wires are out of reach.

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Digging in Potted Plants

Do you have overturned plants or dirt scattered all over the floor? Cats love to dig in soil for fun—sometimes even snow! This behavior often mimics outdoor instincts.

Possible Solution:
Use a plant cover to protect your greenery. You can also create a digging box filled with safe, fun materials to satisfy their curiosity.

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Climbing Where They Shouldn’t

Cats are natural climbers and observers. High places often feel safe and provide a good vantage point, much like they would have in the wild. However, cats on kitchen counters or shelves where valuables are easily knocked over are not ideal for pet owners.

Possible Solution:
Provide cat trees or perches to satisfy their climbing instincts. An enclosed outdoor perch can give your cat a bird’s-eye view and access to abundant sunshine.

 

We've talked about the WHYs and possible SOLUTIONS. Let's cover the benefits of Indoor enrichment activities. 

 

"Your cat's mental, emotional, and physical well-being is at stake here!" Including enrichment activities will ensure that your indoor feline can lead a happy, healthy, and fulfilled life within the safety of your home. 

 

Fun Fact

Did you know that Cats spend about 70% of their lives Sleeping? 

Indoor cats can sleep anywhere from 12 to 16 hours a day! This helps them conserve energy for those 'zoomies' or hunting-style play sessions. Kittens and older cats tend to snooze even more.

 

 

 Let's Check out 5 Creative Ways to Keep Your Indoor Cat Active and Engaged on a Budget

 

 

Here Are a Few Examples of Enrichment Activities

 

1. Window Perches for Bird Watching—Provide a perch near a window where your cat can watch the outside world.

• DIY Shelf Perch using a board and brackets
• Moving a piece of furniture like a chair or table near a window, thus providing a blanket for comfort. Shop cat window perch HERE.

 

2. DIY Puzzle Feeders—Puzzle feeders are a great way to keep your cat engaged during meal time. You can make your own with items that you already have at home. And for a fraction of the cost.

• Use a cardboard egg carton: Place small amounts of kibble or treats in each compartment.
• Take a toilet paper roll and place fun safe material with a few treats mixed in. Once filled, fold each end to close. Cut a small opening in the middle. This should satisfy their curiosity. 

 

• You can Shop for Affordable Puzzle Feeders here.

 

 

3. Interactive Play with a Wand Toy—A wand toy with feathers or ribbon can provide endless entertainment. 

• Long stick or wood dowel- Decorate with washi tape if desired. Use a serrated knife to cut a divot at one end of the dowel.
• Hemp string- Cut a piece of string about 30" in length. Tie the string securely within the divot, secure 3 feathers, then wrap around the feathers and dowel. You can use a dot of glue for extra strength. 
• Natural feathers
  
• Glue (Make sure the glue is Non-toxic to animals)
  

Affordable Supplies: 

1. Elmer's Carpenter's Wood Glue or White Elmer's glue (Non-toxic)
2. Washi Tape
3. Wooden dowel natural bamboo stick 1/4 x 17.5"
4. Natural Hemp Rope
5. Natural Feathers   (Avoid synthetic, color chemically treated, or small fragile feathers) Ensure that your feathers are ethically sourced. 

 

4. Catnip-filled twists 

Your cats will go CRAZY over these easy-to-make twists. 

 

• Felt or cotton material 10" x 5" piece - Cut material to specified size. Place the Catnip at the beginning of the fold. Start to fold tightly until you reach the bottom. Twist and tie in a knot.
• Catnip - You can find FRESH California Catnip [HERE].
  

 

5. Paper Bag Hideout 

"Have you ever placed a large paper bag on the floor and watched your cat dive into it with zero reservations?" Me.🤣 

Paper bags are a simple and affordable way to keep your kitty entertained. (Avoid paper bags with handles to prevent accidents).

'Dezi & Roo' has created a "Hide and Seek" collapsible bag-tunnel to give your cat a fun hideaway experience. Check out this interactive cat tunnel [HERE].

 

Fun Fact

Did you know that studies have shown that mentally stimulated cats are happier and less prone to anxiety?

 

 

So, there you have it! Some great low-cost DIY projects to keep your cat active and entertained without breaking the bank. These activities will also strengthen the bond between you and your feline beauty.

 

 

Do you have any DIY projects you have tried for your cat. I would love to know! Leave it in the comments.  Thank you for visiting. -Annmarie