If you’re a busy pet owner who hates seeing your furry friend bored or lonely at home, worry not! We’ve got you covered with these 10 foolproof ways to keep your pet entertained when you’re away. From interactive toys to creating a stimulating environment, these simple yet effective ideas will ensure that your pet stays happy and engaged, even in your absence. So say goodbye to guilt and hello to a contented pet!
Setting up a Safe and Stimulating Environment
Create a designated pet area
When you’re not home, it’s important to create a designated area for your pet where they can feel safe and comfortable. This could be a specific room or an enclosed space within your home. Make sure the area is free of any potential hazards such as toxic plants, electrical cords, or small objects that your pet could swallow. Provide a cozy bed or comfortable bedding, as well as access to food, water, and a litter box if needed.
Provide plenty of toys and puzzles
To keep your pet entertained and stimulated while you’re away, it’s essential to provide them with a variety of toys and puzzles. Cats enjoy toys that allow them to hunt and pounce, such as interactive mice or feather wands. Dogs, on the other hand, might enjoy chew toys or puzzle toys that dispense treats. Choose toys that are safe and durable, and rotate them regularly to maintain your pet’s interest.
Use interactive food dispensing toys
Another great way to keep your pet mentally engaged is by using interactive food dispensing toys. These toys require your pet to work for their food, stimulating their natural instincts and keeping them occupied. You can find a wide range of treat-dispensing toys for both dogs and cats, which can be filled with kibble or treats. As your pet interacts with the toy, the food is dispensed, providing them with a rewarding challenge.
Enriching Your Pet’s Environment
Play calming background music
One way to create a soothing environment for your pet is by playing calming background music. Studies have shown that certain types of music can help reduce stress and anxiety in animals. Look for calming instrumental music or specially designed music for pets. Leaving the music on a low volume can help create a sense of comfort and relaxation for your pet while you’re away.
Provide a view of the outside world
Many pets love watching the world outside, whether it’s birds, squirrels, or people passing by. If possible, place your pet’s bed or perch near a window where they can have a view of the outside. This can provide them with visual stimulation and entertainment throughout the day. Consider setting up a cozy spot with a comfortable bed or a window perch for your pet to enjoy their view.
Set up a bird feeder or aquarium in view
To enhance your pet’s environment and provide them with additional visual stimulation, consider setting up a bird feeder or an aquarium in view. Cats, in particular, enjoy watching birds, and having a bird feeder near a window can provide endless entertainment. Similarly, an aquarium with colorful fish can captivate your pet’s attention and add a calming element to their environment.
Engaging Your Pet’s Natural Instincts
Hide treats around the house
A fun way to engage your pet’s natural instincts and keep them entertained is by hiding treats around the house. This not only provides a challenging scavenger hunt but also encourages your pet to use their senses to locate the hidden treats. Start by hiding a few treats in easy-to-find locations and gradually increase the difficulty as your pet becomes more adept at finding them.
Set up a treasure hunt
Building on the idea of hiding treats, you can take it a step further by setting up a treasure hunt for your pet. This involves creating a series of clues and hiding treats or toys at each clue location. As your pet follows the clues, they will be rewarded with a new surprise at each step. This activity stimulates both their mental and physical abilities, making it a great way to keep them entertained.
Rotate and introduce new toys regularly
To prevent boredom and keep your pet interested, it’s important to rotate their toys regularly. This means putting away a few toys and introducing new ones every so often. By doing this, you’re providing your pet with novel and stimulating experiences. Keep an eye out for new toys that cater to your pet’s natural instincts and preferences, and introduce them gradually to keep things exciting.
Keeping Your Pet Physically Active
Provide a scratching post for cats
For cats, providing a scratching post is crucial to keeping them physically active and mentally stimulated. Not only does a scratching post allow your cat to engage their natural scratching behavior, but it also helps to keep their nails healthy and their muscles toned. Make sure to choose a sturdy scratching post that is tall enough for your cat to fully stretch out and provide tempting alternatives to your furniture.
Use a laser pointer for interactive play
If you have a playful and active pet, using a laser pointer can be a great way to keep them physically and mentally engaged. Cats and dogs love to chase the elusive red dot, and it provides them with a high-energy activity. However, it’s important to never shine the laser directly into your pet’s eyes and to always end the play session with a tangible toy or treat to prevent frustration.
Set up a hamster wheel or exercise ball for small pets
If you have small pets like hamsters or gerbils, providing them with opportunities for physical exercise is essential. A hamster wheel or an exercise ball can offer them a way to burn off energy and stay active. Make sure the wheel or ball is an appropriate size for your pet and that it is made of safe materials. Supervise their playtime to ensure their safety and to prevent any accidents.
Interactive Playtime with Your Pet
Play fetch or tug-of-war with dogs
Dogs love interactive playtime, and games like fetch or tug-of-war are perfect for burning off energy and strengthening the bond between you and your pet. Grab a ball or favorite toy and engage in a friendly game of fetch. Alternatively, play tug-of-war with a sturdy tug toy. Remember to always use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior and provide plenty of praise and treats.
Engage in laser chase games for cats
Cats have a natural instinct to chase and hunt, and laser chase games can fulfill this instinct. Using a cat-safe laser pointer, create a game of “chase the light” for your feline friend. Move the laser pointer around the room, making quick movements and changes in direction to mimic the movements of prey. End the game with a treat or a tangible toy to provide a sense of satisfaction and completion.
Teach your pet new tricks or commands
Training your pet with new tricks or commands not only provides mental stimulation but also strengthens the bond between you and your pet. Spend some time each day teaching them something new, such as sit, stay, or even fun tricks like high-five or roll over. Use positive reinforcement techniques like treats, praise, and affection to reward their progress. Be patient and consistent, as training takes time and repetition.
Socializing Your Pet
Arrange playdates with other pets
If your pet enjoys socializing with other animals, arranging playdates with other pets can provide them with a great source of entertainment and stimulation. Whether it’s a friend’s dog, a neighbor’s cat, or even a visit to a local dog park, interacting with other animals allows your pet to exercise their social skills and engage in playful behavior. Always supervise playdates to ensure safety and compatibility between the animals.
Consider a pet surveillance camera
If you’re curious about what your pet is up to while you’re away, a pet surveillance camera can provide you with peace of mind and entertainment. These cameras allow you to monitor your pet’s activities in real-time and sometimes even interact with them through a built-in speaker or treat dispenser. Watching your pet’s antics or using the camera to engage with them remotely can be a fun way to stay connected.
Hire a pet sitter for companionship
If your pet tends to get lonely when you’re not home, hiring a pet sitter can be a great solution. A pet sitter can provide companionship and engage with your pet through play, walks, or simply spending time together. This not only helps to alleviate boredom and anxiety but also ensures that your pet’s physical and emotional needs are being met while you’re away. Look for reputable pet sitters in your area and communicate your pet’s needs and preferences to them.
Providing Mental Stimulation
Teach your pet to solve puzzles or fetch toys
Pets, especially dogs, can benefit greatly from mental stimulation in the form of puzzles or interactive toys. These toys often require your pet to think and solve problems in order to obtain a reward. For example, a puzzle toy might have hidden compartments that your pet needs to figure out how to open to access treats. Similarly, teaching your dog to fetch specific toys by name can engage their mental abilities and provide a challenging game.
Use treat-dispensing toys that require problem-solving
Another way to provide mental stimulation for your pet is by using treat-dispensing toys that require problem-solving. These toys usually have different compartments or levels that your pet needs to navigate in order to access the treats hidden inside. They provide a great opportunity for your pet to use their senses, problem-solving skills, and coordination to retrieve the treats. Start with simpler toys and gradually increase the difficulty as your pet becomes more proficient.
Try clicker training for mental exercise
Clicker training is a positive reinforcement technique that can be used to train dogs, cats, and even some small pets like rabbits or birds. The clicker is a small device that makes a distinct sound when pressed, which serves as a marker for correct behavior. By associating the sound with rewards, you can effectively communicate with your pet and teach them new behaviors or tricks. Engaging in clicker training sessions provides mental exercise while also strengthening the bond between you and your pet.
Creating a Routine for Your Pet
Establish regular feeding and playtimes
Pets thrive on routine, so it’s important to establish regular feeding and playtimes to provide structure and predictability in their day. Set specific times for meals and stick to them as closely as possible. Similarly, schedule play sessions or interactive activities at consistent times each day. This allows your pet to anticipate and look forward to these activities, reducing stress and providing a sense of security.
Stick to a consistent daily schedule
In addition to feeding and playtimes, it’s beneficial to stick to a consistent daily schedule for other activities such as walks, bathroom breaks, and relaxation time. Dogs, in particular, thrive on routine and appreciate knowing what to expect throughout the day. Consistency in your pet’s daily schedule helps them feel secure and reduces anxiety or confusion when you’re not at home.
Include physical and mental activities in the routine
When creating a routine for your pet, it’s important to include both physical and mental activities. This ensures that they are receiving a well-rounded and stimulating experience throughout the day. Incorporate activities such as walks, play sessions, training sessions, and interactive toy time into their daily schedule. By providing a balance of physical exercise and mental stimulation, you can keep your pet happy, healthy, and entertained.
Utilizing Technology for Pet Entertainment
Install a pet-friendly app on a tablet
Technology can be a valuable tool for keeping your pet entertained, especially if they enjoy interactive games or sounds. There are numerous pet-friendly apps available that are specifically designed for cats and dogs. These apps feature games, sounds, and visuals that are appealing to your pet and can provide hours of entertainment. Simply install the app on a tablet and let your pet interact with the screen in a supervised and controlled manner.
Use automatic laser toys or treat dispensers
If you’re looking for a way to keep your pet entertained without direct involvement, automatic laser toys or treat dispensers can be a great option. These devices are designed to provide stimulation and entertainment for your pet on their own. Automatic laser toys move the laser pointer around in random patterns, while treat dispensers dispense treats at specific intervals. Always ensure that the devices are safe, reliable, and suitable for your pet’s size and behavior.
Try a live-streaming pet camera
For pet owners who want to stay connected with their furry friends throughout the day, live-streaming pet cameras are an excellent option. These cameras allow you to see real-time video of your pet and sometimes even communicate with them through a speaker or treat dispenser. Some cameras even have motion sensors that send alerts to your phone when your pet is active. This technology provides both entertainment for your pet and peace of mind for you.
Seeking Professional Help for Pet Entertaining
Consult a veterinarian for behavioral advice
If you’re struggling to keep your pet entertained or if they are exhibiting unwanted behaviors while you’re away, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance and advice tailored to your specific pet’s needs. They may be able to recommend behavioral training techniques, suggest enrichment activities, or even recommend medications or supplements to help manage anxiety or boredom.
Enroll your pet in doggy daycare or a pet activity center
For highly active or social pets, enrolling them in doggy daycare or a pet activity center can provide them with the stimulation and socialization they need. These facilities offer supervised playtime, group activities, and even specialized training programs. Dogs can interact with other dogs and engage in various activities, while cats and small pets can enjoy structured play and enrichment opportunities. Look for reputable facilities with trained staff and positive reviews.
Consider hiring a professional pet trainer
If your pet’s behavior is causing concerns or if you want to provide them with additional mental stimulation, hiring a professional pet trainer can be a beneficial option. A professional trainer can help you address specific behavioral issues, teach your pet new tricks or commands, and provide guidance on how to keep your pet entertained and engaged. They can tailor training sessions to your pet’s individual needs and abilities, ensuring effective and positive results.
