Cats Are Happier When They Work For Their Food

A new research shows that cats are happier when they work for their food. As per the new research in Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, new information has come out. The indoors cats are not intelligent and they need intellectual stimulation.

As it turns out these free roaming cats need to work for their foods by solving puzzles. It will help them both physically and mentally. University of California performed a test on 30 cats. It clearly states that the health issues of these pets showed drastic reduction where cat had to work for their food.

The examples include an obese 8 years old feline creature that lost 20 percent of its fat content within one year. According to research, cats are natural feline hunters. You should allow your pet to hunt for meals. It will not deprive her of the ability to hunt and she will be in high spirits.

Are Food Puzzles Good For Your Feline Friend?

It will also help her body to get the sufficient amount of exercise. If your cat likes eating dry kibbles, then mobile puzzles will be best for her. You need to increase the challenge gradually because cats like improving their detective skills.

According to research, it shows that feline creatures like playing with soft toys. So provide your pet with a set of cat toys that she can enjoy. If you want your pet to grow into your most beloved companion, the feed her kibble puzzles. It will keep her brain active and free from any kind of intellectual worries.

So from now make sure that you are feeding your pet by allow her to solve the puzzles in the first place. The studies show that feline creatures might struggle initially. Therefore, you should not provide many puzzles in the beginning. As your indoor cat gets efficient, you may increase the quantity of puzzles.

How To Make Your Cat Happy Indoors?

Most cats enjoy exploring and hunting, so providing them with interactive toys and puzzles can help simulate these natural instincts. Additionally, creating vertical spaces such as cat trees or shelves can give them a sense of territory and allow them to observe their surroundings from different heights.

Other cats like to have hiding spots where they can retreat and feel safe. Providing cozy beds or enclosed spaces, like cat tunnels or boxes, can give them a sense of security and privacy. Additionally, incorporating scratching posts or boards in different areas of the house can help satisfy their need to scratch and stretch their muscles.

Indoor cats vs Outdoor cats vs Domestic cats

Most cat lovers enjoy the companionship and affection of their feline friends, regardless of whether they are indoor, domestic, or outdoor cats. Indoor cats are often seen as safer and protected from the dangers of the outside world, while outdoor cats have the freedom to explore and experience nature.

Domestic cats, on the other hand, can encompass both indoor and outdoor cats, depending on their living situation and owners preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these types of cats depends on individual circumstances and what is best for the cat’s well-being.

Cats Eating Habits Compared To Other Animals

As pet owners we need to make sure to do everything possible to keep a cat healthy and nourished. One important aspect to consider is their eating habits. Cats are obligate carnivores, meaning they require a diet primarily consisting of meat.

Unlike other animals, such as herbivores or omnivores, cats have specific nutritional needs that can only be met through a meat-based diet. Adjusting to life indoors can be challenging for a cat.

Additionally, cats have a unique feeding behavior where they prefer to eat small, frequent meals throughout the day rather than consuming large quantities at once. Understanding and catering to these eating habits is crucial for maintaining the overall well-being of a feral cat.

Providing a balanced diet that includes high-quality, protein-rich cat kibble is essential. It is important to avoid feeding cats foods that are harmful to them, such as onions, garlic, and chocolate.

Besides, ensuring that your best friend has access to fresh water at all times is vital for their hydration. By meeting these dietary needs and providing proper feeding schedules, cat owners can contribute to their pet’s long-term health and happiness.

How To Keep Your Cat Happy?

Happy cats are able to enjoy the outdoors as well as have plenty of stimulating activities indoors. Providing your cat with a safe and secure outdoor space, such as a fenced-in yard or a patio, allows them to explore and experience the natural environment.

Additionally, engaging your cat in interactive play sessions and providing them with toys that encourage mental stimulation can help keep them content and fulfilled indoors. Here are some things you can do to increase their happiness:

Purchase scratching posts

Cat lovers can purchase a scratching post to keep a happy cat and prevent them from scratching furniture or other household items. Scratching posts provide a designated area for cats to satisfy their natural instinct to scratch, helping to keep their claws healthy and promoting good behavior.

Read their body language

Their body language will provide clues about their mood and needs. By observing their tail position, ear movement, and overall posture, dog owners can better understand if their cat is feeling relaxed, playful, or anxious.

If you notice your cat lying on their back with their paws in the fresh air, it typically means they are feeling comfortable and trusting in their environment. However, if you observe your cat crouching low to the ground with their tail tucked between their legs, it may indicate that they are feeling scared or threatened.

Get a litter box for your feline friends

Cats are naturally clean animals and may avoid using a dirty litter box, leading to accidents in the house. Regularly scooping and cleaning the litter box will ensure that your cat has a clean and comfortable space to do their business.

Improve their mental health

Wild animals show that engaging in play and exploration is essential for their mental and physical health. Similarly, indoor cats also benefit from mental stimulation to prevent boredom and anxiety.

Providing toys, scratching posts, and interactive play sessions can help keep your cat mentally stimulated and happy. Additionally, creating a safe and enriching environment with hiding spots and perches can mimic their natural instincts and provide them with a sense of security.

Make them feel secure

Cats tend to feel happy and secure when they have a designated vertical space that is solely theirs, such as a cozy bed or a cat tree. This allows them to retreat and relax whenever they feel the need for some alone time.

Additionally, providing consistent routines and a stable environment can help reduce stress and increase their overall sense of security. Many cats may want to venture outdoors, but it is important to ensure they are kept safe and supervised.

Keep them safe from predators or any other possible dangers by ensuring they have a secure and enclosed outdoor area, such as a patio or a fenced yard. Regularly checking for any potential hazards inside the house, such as toxic plants or small objects they could swallow, can also contribute to their safety.

Spend time with your kitty

As a general rule, you should spend at least 15-20 minutes each day engaging in interactive play with your cat. This not only helps to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend, but it also provides them with mental stimulation and physical exercise.

Also, regular grooming sessions can contribute to their overall happiness by keeping their coat clean and free of mats or tangles. Pet supply stores often carry different types of toys that can help you keep your pet entertained and engaged.

Playing with your cat indoors

Playing with your family members on the outside world is also beneficial for their physical and mental stimulation. Engaging in interactive play sessions with toys or using a laser pointer can help keep them active and entertained.

Furthermore, providing opportunities for them to explore the great outdoors under supervision, can satisfy their natural curiosity and provide them with new sensory experiences. However, it is important to ensure that they are protected from any potential dangers outside, such as traffic or other animals, by using a secure harness or leash.

Help your cat feel safe

Your kitten needs to feel safe in their environment, so providing them with a cozy and secure space indoors, such as a designated cat bed or hiding spot, can help alleviate any anxiety they may have. Plus, creating a consistent routine and providing plenty of love and attention can also contribute to their overall sense of security.

Paper bags and other toys can help stimulate their natural instincts and provide mental stimulation. Additionally, ensuring that your outdoor cat has access to high perches or vertical spaces can help them feel secure and in control of their surroundings.

Monitor their sleeping habits

Install window screens to block the sunlight and prevent your cat from overheating during the day. Additionally, observe your kitten’s sleeping patterns to ensure they are getting enough rest.

Cats typically sleep for around 12–16 hours a day, so if you notice any significant changes in their sleep schedule or excessive lethargy, it may be worth consulting a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

Ask your veterinarian for advice if your cat seems to have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. They may be able to provide recommendations on creating a more comfortable sleeping environment for your cat, such as providing a cozy bed or using calming pheromone sprays.

Last Animal Tips For Humans To Implement

A simple treat can be a satisfying gesture for a cat’s life, as they provide mental stimulation and can strengthen the bond between the cat and its owner. However, it is important for humans to implement treats in moderation and choose healthy options to avoid weight gain and potential health issues.

Additionally, treats should be used as a reward for good behavior or as a tool for training, rather than as a substitute for a balanced diet. This can help maintain a healthy lifestyle and prevent unhealthy habits from developing. Furthermore, it is crucial for other animal owners to be aware of the ingredients in the treats they are offering their feline companions.

Last Updated on 16/03/2025 by Karen Snow