Enrichment

Enrichment means shaping a cat's surroundings so it can do the things cats are built for. A bored or frustrated cat may overgroom, spray, scratch furniture, put on weight or become withdrawn. A cat with enough to do tends to be calmer and healthier.

International veterinary guidelines describe five pillars of a healthy feline environment: a safe place, several separate places for key resources such as food, water, toilets, scratching and resting, the chance to play and hunt, positive and predictable human contact, and respect for the cat's sense of smell.

In practice, that can mean:

• high perches and window views, plus hiding places
• wand toys, balls and play sessions every day, see predatory sequence
• scratching posts in more than one style
• food in puzzle feeders instead of a bowl, see puzzle feeder
• rotating toys so they stay interesting
• safe outdoor access, such as a catio or harness walks

Introduce changes gradually and watch the cat's response. Ask your vet if a cat becomes lethargic, stops playing or hides, because illness and pain can look like boredom.