How to Deal With a Bored Cat

Contrary to what many people believe, cats are by nature pack or social animals. Studies show that cats living in homes with other cats live healthier happier lives. A cat who spends all day alone that is acting destructive or aggressive is probably bored.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Adopt a playmate. Having a second cat in the household is not any harder, although it does double the expense. Getting a second cat may make both you and your cat happier.

2. Play cat DVDs once in awhile when you leave for the day. They are sold at most pet stores. It is best to have a few of them so the cat doesn't get bored watching the same bird or fish all day. To keep them novel and stimulating for the cat only play DVDs for him one or two days a week.

3. Set up a day of hunting. Cats love to hunt, stalk and kill. Simulate the environment for her by hiding treats and toys throughout the house. Pick new hiding places every day.

4. Put several ping pong balls in the empty bathtub to keep your young cat or kitten from getting bored. An energetic cat can be entertained by this for hours.

5. Get an indoor water fountain if your cat likes water play. An alternative is so leave the water in the bathroom turned on at a drip or a slow stream for the cat to play in. You can also put floating toys and boats in water in the sink.

6. Make your home cat friendly with condos, houses, scratching posts and window seats. Move them around once a week to keep the cat from getting bored with them.

7. Bring the outdoors to your indoor cat. If it is possible to screen in a porch or a sunroom, this is a wonderful way to keep your indoor cat from getting bored. If that is not possible, bring a large tree branch into the house once a month and hide cat treats in it. The cat will love the chance to smell the outdoors while hunting.