Your indoor cat is bored (and the curtains are the proof)

Indoor cats live more sheltered lives, but they also get less stimulation. And a bored cat ends up inventing their own games: scaling the curtains, knocking things off the table or ambushing your ankles at three in the morning.

Environmental enrichment means giving them, inside the home, chances to do what they would do outdoors: stalk, chase, climb, sniff and rest somewhere safe.

Hunting games: short and often

The wand with feathers or a toy on the end is the queen of enrichment. Move it the way prey would: let it hide, freeze, run away. Several short sessions a day usually work better than one long one.

Always finish by letting them ‘catch’ it, so they aren't left frustrated. And put the wand away afterwards: with strings involved, it's best to play under supervision.

Food they have to earn

Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing balls turn mealtimes into a little challenge. You can also hide a few pieces of their kibble around the house for them to find.

• Start with easy challenges so they don't lose heart.
• Use part of their daily ration, not extra treats, so you don't overdo the quantity.
• Rotate toys every few days: whatever reappears seems brand new.
• Cardboard boxes and paper bags (without handles) are free fun.

Think vertical

Cats love watching the world from above. A cat tree, shelves at different heights or a bed by the window multiply the usable space in your flat without taking up more floor.

If you have several cats, height also helps each one have their own spot, with less friction.

And a good spot for doing nothing

Rest is part of wellbeing too. Offer beds in quiet places and a cave-style hideaway where nobody will disturb them.

If your cat seems listless, suddenly changes how they behave or stops playing, see your vet before putting it down to boredom.

At Petuki you'll find wands, interactive toys, scratching posts and beds so your cat's indoor life is as entertaining as can be.