How to entertain bored cats while you’re at work

by animal communicator Sarah Messina

Cats who spend most of their time indoors tend to get rather bored when their human guardians go to work. And we humans seem to be very good at accumulating 40+ hrs a week away from the home, whether at work, shopping, running errands or taking time out. Indoor pets don’t have the ability to go where they please, they’re stuck in our homes. I’m sure you love your pets, as most of us full-time workers do. So let’s be honest, how entertained would you be cooped up in your home every day?

It’s not just bored cats we’re talking about. The same goes for all pets kept inside full or part-time – fish, lizards, snakes, birds, dogs, rabbits, hermit crabs, mice, rats, ferrets, guinea pigs… you name it. If it’s stuck indoors, you can bet your pet is bored more often than not. But it doesn’t have to be this way. You might not be able to provide the ultimate environment for keeping pets stimulated while you’re out, but you can certainly make some easy adjustments that will put smiles on their faces.

1. A visual feast for bored cats
   

   The worst thing you can do to an indoor pet is lock it in a room without a view. Just think of how crazy you would become if you were in that situation. Give them a window to look out of. Make sure the curtains, drapes or blinds allow them to see out, and ensure they have places to hide so they feel safe. There is so much going on outside – birds, butterflies, wind rustling through plants, the postman, cars, dog walkers, school children… give your pet something exciting to observe during their lonely days. If you can’t do this, then consider a television playing documentaries for short blocks of time.

2. Bored cats crave outdoor stimulation
   

   You'll often find bored cats clawing at doors and windows, wishing they were out in the sunshine. An outdoor run and door flap are wonderful for this. You can  install a permanent cat flap, or purchase temporary ones to fit to sliding doors. An outdoor run provides a safe & stimulating atmosphere for otherwise bored cats and dogs. Many of my clients have made their own outdoor enclosures when commercial enclosures have been too pricey. So be creative. Maybe you could section off a part of your backyard that is safe and suitable for your pet.

1. Companions for bored cats
   

   Ok, so you can’t be at home all the time. But consider a companion for your bored cat or pet. I’d highly recommend you consult your animal on this, as it will all come down to personal preference. Some animals want nothing but human attention, others want a member of their species, and others want something different altogether. You can ask an animal communicator to find out what they’d prefer, and often your pet will tell you exactly what species, breed, age, sex and disposition would make them happiest.

2. The sound of music
   

   Technology is truly awesome. Most televisions, stereos, cd & dvd players can be set on a timer to switch on. There are plenty of animal-friendly cd’s available off the internet nowadays. But you can always make your own mix. Try some peaceful tunes – easy listening, classical or world music. When you’re home, notice what your animal likes best. Perhaps you could prepare an entertaining animal documentary on the television, for visual and aural stimulation.

3. Stimulate bored cats with colour
   

   A change is as good as a holiday. Think about how you could mix things up for them. Adding new colours to their environment is simple and effective. You can change the colour of blankets, paintings, cushions, food bowls, enclosure decorations, flowers, toys, whatever you like. It doesn’t have to be anything special, just something new to look at, to lie down on or to play with. Open a captivating page in a photography book or put colourful posters on the wall. Use your imagination!

Additional suggestions for making changes.
Make any change you think your animals might like, providing it is safe and doesn’t promote stress. Some animals prefer routine and order, and can feel disrupted by changes in their environment. Many indoor pets are prey animals, so keep in mind that certain stimuli have the potential to frighten them. Put yourself in their shoes when choosing new stimuli. Watch their reactions and remove anything that appears to stress your animal. I'm sure you'll think of many creative ways to enrich and entertain your pets. If you're unsure what your pet wants, you can always ask an animal communicator to find out exactly what they want & need.

Sarah Messina is a professional animal communicator and healer for Wild Insights Australia.
If you would like to have an animal communicator talk to your animals, you can book online or contact Sarah today.