5 DIY Brain Games to Keep Your Cat Entertained

Why Mental Stimulation Is Important for Cats

Creating a DIY brain game for your cat provides mental stimulation, which offers a whole host of cognitive and physical benefits. Playtime is important for cats of all ages and should be a part of their daily routine. 

Some of the main benefits of mental stimulation for cats include: 

• Encourages natural instincts – Games that mimic hunting, stalking, and pouncing satisfy a cat’s primal needs, giving them a positive outlet for their natural behaviors. 

• Supports emotional health – Enrichment helps cats’ well-being, supporting them to feel more secure in their environment. 

• Promotes physical activity – Many brain games also get cats moving, acting as a form of exercise.

• Prevents boredom and destructive behavior – Bored cats may scratch furniture , overgroom, or become lethargic.  

DIY Brain Games for Cats

Simple objects you have around your home can be transformed into fun and exciting DIY mental stimulation games for cats. You can use household items like cardboard boxes, paper bags, toilet rolls and more! 

Here are five fun and simple DIY cat brain games you can try: 

1. Find the Toy

The “find the toy” game is one of the easiest activities to promote mental situation for your cat. It’s as simple as hiding their kibble, treats or favorite toys in a room for them to find. Start easy, then gradually hide items in harder to find places to give your cat a bit more of a challenge. 

This game uses their natural curiosity and allows them to navigate their environment in a stimulating way, keeping their minds active and engaged while they’re having fun.

2. DIY Cat Puzzle 

Puzzle toys provide a great form of mental stimulation for cats, as they encourage natural behaviors, allowing them to use their strong sense of smell and problem-solving skills to get to the tasty treats. 

Not only are they excellent for keeping your cat entertained, but they’re also very easy to make. Simply take an empty egg box and place treats or small toys in a few of the compartments. Then, scrunch some small bits of newspaper and cover the treats with them. Finally, let your kitty search and sniff to find the hidden treats!

3. Toilet Roll Treat Dispenser

A treat dispenser is another way to encourage mental stimulation for cats and is also an effective DIY kitten toy. It offers an outlet for physical activity, promotes problem-solving, and can even help cats eat more like they naturally do.  

For this brain game, start with a toilet roll tube and use scissors to cut flaps at both ends. Fold each set of flaps inward to close off one end of the tube. Then, place some of your cat’s favourite treats before closing off the other end. Next, cut some holes in the tube large enough for the treats be dispensed. Give it to your kitty and watch them bat, roll and run around to retrieve the delicious treats.  

4. Box Fort Hide-and-Seek

This DIY cat mental stimulation game is perfect for any furry friends that love to explore and pounce. It also fulfils their natural instincts, while the box gives them a safe and enclosed space where they can feel comfortable. This sense of security makes it a great DIY toy for kittens or cats that are adapting to a new home. 

Firstly, grab a few cardboard boxes and tape them together or place them next to each other to form a maze. Next, cut some small windows, a door and some other holes for exploring. If you want to go the extra mile, you can even decorate the outside to create your own kitty castle! 

Finally, place some treats or their favorite toys somewhere for them to find. Why not try hiding Happy Snack by FELIWAY® in one of the areas? Your cat will seek out this delicious treat in no time, and with its calming qualities, it’s ideal for helping your new cat settle into playtime.

5. Paper Bag Surprise

Like a DIY cat puzzle, a paper bag surprise toy lets your cat hunt for treats while encouraging physical exercise such as batting and pouncing. Cats also enjoy the crinkly sound of a paper bag, which can stimulate curiosity and provide entertainment. 

All you’ll need for this DIY is a paper bag, a toy or some treats. You can connect multiple paper bags together with tape or use a single bag on its own. Place or toy or treat inside the paper bag and let your cat investigate. Try adding other items, like a ping pong ball or hidden rewards, to add intrigue and make it extra fun!  

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