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Even though cats become less active in their golden years, there are still plenty of ways to engage and entertain them with interactive toys and activities. Include ideas like puzzle feeders, feather wands, and laser pointer games that will help keep your senior feline entertained and mentally stimulated.
1. Invest in interactive toys
2. Play games with them
3. Provide scratching posts
4. Create a window perch
5. Offer a variety of treats
6. Get creative with hide and seek
7. Set out puzzle toys
8. Spend quality time together
9. Give them lots of love and affection!
There are many great ways to keep your senior cat active and engaged. We’ll cover 9 ideas that you can put into action today to help your older fur baby stay in shape and enjoy life to the fullest.
1. Invest in Interactive Toys
Treat balls, wands with feathers and strings, and other interactive toys can help keep your senior cat engaged. These types of toys let cats play on their own and get in some exercise at the same time!
2. Play Games with Them
Playing games like hide-and-seek with your cat can be fun for both of you. Hide treats around the house for them to find. Your cat will love the challenge and it’s sure to keep them entertained for hours!
3. Provide Scratching Posts
Scratching is a natural instinct for cats, so make sure you provide your senior kitty with scratching posts that are sturdy and comfortable. Not only does this help keep their nails healthy, but it also provides a great physical and mental stimulation!
4. Create a Window Perch
All cats love to look out the window but it can be especially enjoyable for senior cats who are less mobile. Creating a special perch near a sunny, safe window will give them something fun to do while also providing sun-bathing opportunities.
5. Offer a Variety of Treats
Keep your senior cat excited and engaged with new flavors and textures by offering them different treats throughout the week. They’ll look forward to snack time and you can both bond over trying something new!
6. Get Creative with Hide and Seek
Not only is this a great way to give your senior cat some exercise, but it’s also a fun way to keep them mentally stimulated. Hide their favorite treats around the house and watch as they explore to find them!
7. Set out Puzzle Toys
Puzzle toys are a great way to give your senior cat something fun and challenging to do. These toys can help stimulate their minds and get them thinking. Plus, they’ll love the reward of a treat when they finish!
8. Spend Quality Time Together
Playing with your cat and simply being around them can be just as important as making sure they have plenty of toys and activities to do. Spending quality time together is one of the best ways to show your senior cat that you love them and care for them.
9. Give Them Lots of Love and Affection!
At the end of the day, all cats need plenty of love and affection. Giving your senior cat plenty of cuddles, belly rubs, and kisses will help keep them feeling young at heart!
Outdoor Activities for Senior Cats
Outdoor activities can be a great way to keep your senior cat healthy and active. Here are some ideas for outdoor activities that your senior cat may enjoy:
- Leash Walking – Taking your cat for a walk can be a great way to get some fresh air and exercise, while also giving you quality bonding time with your pet. Make sure to use an appropriate leash and harness that is comfortable for your cat first before taking them outside.
- Bird Watching – Your senior cat may have some difficulty with the exercise part of outdoor activities, but they can still enjoy some birdwatching! Take your cat out to a spot in the backyard where they can watch birds comfortably.
- Gardening – Get your senior cat involved in gardening by giving them their own little plot of land outside to explore and play around in. You can even provide them with some toys and other items to help encourage their curiosity.
- Outdoor Exploration – Give your cat the chance to explore the great outdoors in a safe, enclosed environment. You can create an outdoor space for your cat by setting up a pen or shelter in your yard that they can easily access.
By providing some outdoor activities for your senior cat, you can help keep them active and stimulated while still guaranteeing their safety. Have fun exploring the great outdoors with your favorite feline!