Indoor Activities to Keep Our Fur Kids From Being Bored and Healthy

With entering another heat exhausting Summer, ending parents must get creative with finding indoor activities to keep our fur kids from being bored and healthy. I know you’re thinking, something else to add to my to do list (insert eye roll). But no worries, I have you covered.

Below you’ll find tailored suggestions straight from me, the pet expert.

Interactive feeders/puzzles- these are great for both dogs and cats and will encourage them to use their brain and physical activity to be able to get their favorite treat as a reward. Because there are so many options on the market, you must have an idea of which would be more interesting to your furkid.

Stuffable feeders– the name says it all, just stuff their favorite food. Licking helps calm anxiety & hyper pets
Roller balls/tipper- requires your pet to nudge items w/ nose & paws to get snacks out. So, this may turn into a fun chase game.
Snuffle mats– Usually made from cotton, spread a few small treats or kibble so your furkid can use their powerful nose to find their snack.
Licking mats– works well with wet food or peanut butter that doesn’t have sugar or salt. Just smear on the mat. The licking calms the mind & keeps them busy.
Slow feeders– mainly encourages pets to slow down while eating. Which is great for digestion, plus the added benefits of a puzzle feeder.
Puzzle feeders– Very interactive and encourages your dog or cat to strategize. There’re puzzles for all skill types. Dry food is best.

Pro tip: Look for materials that dishwasher safe, washer safe, or easy to clean. Purchase size appropriate toys to avoid choking. If you have different size breeds separate playtime & pickup toys immediately. Always monitor your furkid during playtime.

Shell game– this fun game encourages your furkid to pay attention and develop their problem-solving skills. Another perk is it’s inexpensive, all you need is 3 paper or plastic cups and a treat or kibble. Shuffle around in front of your pet and allow them to figure out which cup has the treat.

Which hand- this game is a simpler version of the shell game; all you need is your hands and a treat or kibble. Allow your furkid to figure out which hand has the treat by using their nose.

Indoor swimming- this activity is best for smaller breeds of puppies/kittens. Your tub is a good option but don’t fill it up all the way to avoid drowning, just enough water to cover their paws. Starting out, your pet’s paws should touch the bottom of the tub. Done properly it will be a calming and fun experience that’s teaching you how to swim. It’ll also make bath time easier too.

Pro tip– Never leave your furkid unattended in the tub or any body of water regardless of age. Don’t allow water to get in their ears, otherwise you may be dealing with an ear infection. Be careful of not doing something that can cause your pet to fear water.

Put away– If your furkid knows how to get their toys out their toy box then they can learn how to put toys away when playtime is over.

Treadmill training- preferably one designed for furkids but if you happen to have one around the house that works too. Treadmills are handy tools especially when the weather is gross. Start slow (walking speed) and gradually increase speed. Always monitor your pet while they’re using the treadmill and keep track of how long your pet has been on, to avoid overexertion. Never use leash while on the treadmill, doing so can cause your furkid to accidentally hang themselves.

Pro tip– pet friendly treadmills can be purchased online for $399+. If your furkid has breathing or heart issues, you should chat with your vet first.

Socializing- if your furkid has other siblings in the household then they are receiving this simulation daily. If not, then consider scheduling monitored playdates with familiar friends.