Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center & Urgent Care

Tips to support your cat’s instincts, curiosity, and wellbeing—without sacrificing your AirPods.

It’s well known that indoor cats tend to be healthier and live longer than their outdoor counterparts—and that outdoor cats can wreak havoc on local ecosystems. But at the end of the day, indoor and outdoor cats are still cats. They’re all born with the same instincts to hunt, climb, hide, and explore—regardless of their lifestyle. Cats need to indulge those natural behaviors to stay healthy and well-adjusted.

So, what can you do to help keep your little lions and tiny tigers happy?

No Bored Cats: Why Enrichment Matters

To a bored cat, anything can become a target for those hunting instincts—a porcelain heirloom, a curtain pull, your AirPods (even while you're wearing them), or your toes as you walk by. Providing appropriate, safe toys gives cats a healthy outlet for their energy and curiosity.

A Toy for Every Cat (and Every Budget)

Every cat is unique, so it may take some experimenting to find your kitty’s favorite toy. Jingle balls, catnip pillows, feather wands, and toy mice are classics—but don’t overlook the simple stuff! Bottle caps, balled-up paper, and ping-pong balls can be just as entertaining.

Food for Thought: DIY Food Puzzle Toys

Puzzle toys aren’t just for dogs—cats love them too! You can find food puzzles online or at pet stores, but they’re also easy to make at home. Try cutting holes in a clean plastic bottle, adding a few treats, and letting your cat bat it around to earn their reward.
Want more ideas? Visit foodpuzzlesforcats.com for expert tips and designs.

Create an Indoor Playground

Cats love to perch, climb, and observe from up high. A cat tree is a great investment, but even a cozy cat bed on top of a cabinet or bookshelf (minus the breakables!) can give them the vantage point they crave. Bonus points if it’s near a window—watching birds and bugs can be great entertainment.

DIY Pro Tip: The Power of a Cardboard Box

Don’t overlook what may already be in your recycling bin: the humble cardboard box. To your cat, it’s a house, a jungle gym, a nap spot, and a hideout—all in one.

Join the Fun!

Most cats are happy to entertain themselves, but nothing beats interactive play with their favorite human. A few minutes of tossing a toy or dangling a wand each day goes a long way in strengthening the bond between you and your pet.

Play It Safe

While many things can be toys, not everything should be. Avoid small plastic, fabric, or rubber bits (wrappers, broken toys, packing peanuts, hair ties, etc.) and long string-like items (ribbons, thread, yarn). These can cause serious harm if swallowed—and often require surgery to remove.

We love your cats here at BRVC, and we’d much rather see them happy, safe, and playful—without a trip to the ER! Thanks for helping us keep your feline friends both entertained and safe!

Written by Samantha Mornin, Laboratory Assistant at Bishop Ranch Veterinary Center and Urgent Care