Are your pets getting the winter blues? Dogs may be stir crazy with not being able to get outdoors for exercise or dog park playdates. Cats also can become bored during a long, chilly winter, when fewer birds, squirrels, and other creatures pass by their lounging window. Try these three indoor games with your pet to bust the boredom.
Enroll in a training class
Although not many training courses are available for your feline friend, you can adapt canine courses to fit your cat, or check out The Cat School Training Kit, which offers a retractable target stick, quiet clicker, printable quick-start guide, and a fun online training course. For dogs, a variety of training classes are available, no matter what strikes their fancy. Search for classes that teach a new activity, such as rally obedience, herding, lure coursing, tracking, or dock jumping.
Design a canine or feline version of Whack-a-Mole
The entertaining people game, Whack-a-Mole, can be configured to a feline or canine version. Simply cut holes in a cardboard box large enough to fit your “mole,” and encourage your pet to snatch up the prize. Use a catnip mouse or feather wand for cats, and entice dogs with a toy, hot dog, or chunk of string cheese.
Create an indoor agility course
You may not believe you can teach your cat to hop over a jump, but it is entirely possible. If a goldfish can be trained to swim through a hoop, you can entice your feline friend to complete an agility course—provided you reward appropriately. Create an indoor agility course using furniture, stacks of books, and other items to build jumps and weave poles. Lure your cat through the course with their favourite treat or toy, and they’ll soon be leaping over jumps with ease.
If you have any questions or concerns about keeping your pet mentally and physically stimulated during the cold months, contact us.