The Art of Pet Enrichment: Keeping Your Furry Friend Mentally Stimulated

Furnishing toys and comfort items can keep a pet out of trouble, but there’s more to pet enrichment than simple distraction. Providing safe games or toys can improve a pet’s sense of control on their surroundings and circumstances. We’ve got some boredom-busting activities for dogs and cats to play with when their owners are temporarily away or busy. 

On Their Level

Pets have it made, right? Everything they need is provided for them, they don’t have to claim or fight for territory, are safe from predators, and they are loved and snuggled to boot. Unfortunately, this relatively easy living can come at the cost of mental and physical challenges. 

There are five categories of animal enrichment that, when fulfilled, add meaningful layers to a pet’s everyday life: 

• Food portions can be divided into numerous snacks throughout the day to keep your pet busy. By spreading out their calories, a pet stays active, motivated, and satisfied.
• Sensory activities focus on all five senses, but many pets prefer games that highlight their olfactory skills. Hiding items for the purpose of hunting is gratifying for cats and dogs. Remember, dogs have over 200 millions scent receptors and they love to use them!
• Cognitive enrichment activities, such as puzzles, hide-and-seek, and other interactive games help pets develop mental acuity.
• Social enrichment activities enable pets to make friends with other pets and people. The associated benefits of socialization can be enjoyed as part of a daily habit. 
• Environmental components of enrichment not only keep a pet safe and healthy, but add to their feelings of comfort and happiness. 

With observation, trial and error, experimentation, and imagination, the sky’s the limit for enrichment games for pets at home. 

Mental Stimulation for Pets

Pet owners can provide mental stimulation for their pets in the following ways:

• Switch up their toys on a regular basis
• Set up a scavenger hunt or obstacle course
• Set up perches, walkways, or window seats for your pet to observe and enjoy what’s happening outside the house

Once your pet is accustomed to their enrichment opportunities, these boredom busting activities for cats and dogs are sure to please:

• Place kibble in the bottom of a muffin tin or egg carton. Use crumpled paper to cover the kibble and allow your pet to sniff, seek, and find the kibble.
• Cardboard boxes can be used as a nest, with a snack between each layer of smaller boxes inside.
• Empty tubes of paper towels or toilet paper can hide snacks well. Be sure to fold each end, cut a small window to entice your pet and watch as they roll it around in hot pursuit.

Please supervise your pet when they play with these items to prevent choking or GI obstruction.

Playing Together

Many pets accept temporary solitude after they’ve received a hearty workout. Exercise your pet prior to your departure each day. Facilitate and encourage training, either agility or obedience, special tricks, and build valuable skills together. These activities strengthen the bond between you, decrease stress, and build confidence and trust. 

It’s important to think about your pet’s mental health. Please give us a call if your pet needs behavioral support at (480) 787‑0544. Our team at Curem Veterinary Care is always happy to assist you.