Resources

Mental Stimulation Toys

Automatic toys - these are battery operated toys which can be used to help a cat entertain themselves.

Catch and kill toys - these toys can be pulled apart by a cat to reveal food, satisfying a cat's instinct to kill.

Automatic cat feeders - can be used to stimulate a cat if they are at home alone during the day or night.

Wands - wands come in all shapes and sizes. Young energetic cats may prefer a wand with a long wire and feather toy at the end to simulate a bird. These are great for getting your cat to jump high and release their energy. Older cats may prefer a short wand with some feathers on the end, this type of close play helps them stay engaged and makes it easier for them to catch the "prey".

Bird window feeders - these work great if you live in a flat or have an indoor cat! The feeder is secured onto the outside of your window and you can fill it with seeds to attract birds and squirrels. Your cat can sit in their favourite spot and watch the birds, fulfilling their stalking drive.

Interactive/puzzle food bowls - these help to slow down your cat's eating and make them work for their food. Ideal if you want to help your cat lose weight and keep them mentally stimulated!

Cat TV - YouTube is full of cat friendly videos to help keep your cat entertained. This works best if you are able to end the show with a play session to allow your cat to release that hunting energy by catching and "killing" a toy.

Clicker Training

As well as helping you get your cat to do what you want (most of the time!), clicker training helps build trust and understanding, and is a great way to help you and your cat bond, if used correctly.

As a rule of thumb, training sessions should be around 10-20 minutes in length and should always end on a positive note. Any longer and your cat will likely get frustrated and bored.

Scratching Posts

Tall cat scratching posts
Vertical scratching posts/boards - some can be hung on walls if your cat likes to climb
Horizontal scratching boards
Cardboard scratching boards
Rope scratching posts
Sofa over arm scratcher
Furniture side and corner scratchers

Pro tip: If you are training your cat to use a scratcher instead of using your furniture, you can use cat scratching deterrent tape or furniture guards to deter and block your cat from wanting to scratch on these surfaces.

Deterrent tape or guards should always be used in conjunction with an adequate substitute for scratching.

Pheromone Diffusers

Cat hormones can signal a number of things, such as food trails, potential danger, maternal bonds, and safety and comfort.

Depending on the behavioural issue, pheromones may help reduce some of the anxiety your cat is experiencing. In most cases you will also need behavioural therapy and environmental adjustments to help your cat.