Intellectual Stimulation Is the Great Problem Solver for Cats!
People (friends, clients, random acquaintances we meet at parties) often ask me HOW we get our 13+ cats to all get along. The answer is multifold, but a HUGE part of it is that we make sure to provide a TON of intellectual stimulation for them. But what does intellectual stimulation mean for cats? Simply, it involves activities that engage cats’ minds and promotes cognitive development. This can help prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
Domestic cats evolved from African wildcats (Felis lybica), solitary hunters who survive by stalking, pouncing, and catching small prey. In the wild, a cat may attempt 20 to 30 hunts per day just to get a few successful catches (they aren’t the best hunters but they sure try hard - which leads to them being a bit obsessive compulsive as they do need to “repeat” the hunting function to be able to make a living). Each hunt requires problem-solving, precision, patience, and fast reflexes—mental and physical effort that taxes the whole brain.
Domesticated indoor cats still carry these instincts. While they may not need to hunt for survival anymore, the drive to hunt remains hardwired. Without an outlet for these instincts, cats can become bored, frustrated, and even develop behavioral issues. I see this often in my practice, and boredom is often the root of inappropriate toileting, inter-cat aggression and nighttime waking of owners.
When a cat's need for mental stimulation goes unmet, you’ll often see it in their behavior. Some common signs of boredom or under-stimulation include:
Excessive vocalization
Destructive scratching or chewing
Aggression toward people or other pets
Obsessive grooming
Depression or lethargy
These behaviors aren't "bad"—they’re often symptoms of a cat trying to create stimulation in an environment that doesn’t offer enough of it.
Imagine being an intelligent, athletic animal with hunting instincts, stuck in the same home every day with little to do (we all went through a version of this during the Covid lockdown!). It's no surprise that cats start to act out when they don't have appropriate outlets for their natural behaviors.
Mental Enrichment Is More Than Just Play
Intellectual stimulation can come in many forms. For cats, it means engaging their senses, instincts, and problem-solving skills. Here are a few ways to offer meaningful enrichment:
1. Interactive Play
Use wand toys, laser pointers, or battery-operated toys that simulate prey movement. Make sure to let your cat "catch" the toy sometimes to avoid frustration (and end with a food reward to simulate killing and eating of prey). Some toys we love (some that our cats can use on their own and some that require the push of a button from us are):
Motorized Interactive Toy Ball
Smarty Cat Hot Pursuit Motion Toy
Anything from Dezi and Roo
Whiskertons Bird Simulation Toy
2. Puzzle Feeders & Hunting Games
Feeding time is a perfect opportunity for enrichment. Puzzle feeders encourage cats to use their brains to access food, replicating the challenge of hunting. You can even hide kibble or treats around the house to create a treasure hunt. My favorite combo is a suction cup bird feeder on a window + puzzle feeder mice - our cats are at the windows together ALL DAY with just these two items!
Indoor Mice Shaped Puzzle Feeders
How to make your own DIY puzzle feeders
3. New Experiences
Cats benefit from novelty. Rotate toys weekly, offer different textures and scents, or even introduce cat-safe outdoor time (via leash or catio) to offer fresh sensory input. Check out my previous blog post about making an enrichment box for your cat!
4. Training
Yes, cats can be trained! Teaching your cat to sit, high five, or run agility courses not only gives them mental exercise—it strengthens your bond as well. I always always recommend my colleague and fellow feline behaviorist Julie Poslun’s amazing website Cat School for training.
Intellectual stimulation doesn’t just prevent boredom—it contributes to your cat’s overall well-being. Mentally engaged cats are more confident, less anxious, and more emotionally balanced. Enrichment also reduces stress, which in turn can help prevent stress-related health problems like urinary issues or overgrooming.
Your cat may look peaceful napping on the windowsill, but underneath that calm surface lies a brain built for stealth, strategy, and skill. By honoring their natural instincts and offering daily mental challenges, you’re not just keeping them entertained—you’re supporting their behavioral health and giving them a more fulfilling life.
In short, enrichment isn’t optional—it’s essential.