How to Make Your Cat Happy - Stimulating The Cat In The House

1. Give your cat freedom. Cats need their own private space to feel happy. Don’t always try to interact with them and let them do their own things. Let the cat have a quiet space in the house where the children will not harass it.
- A cat’s personal space doesn’t have to be big. Cats love confined spaces, such as cardboard boxes, and will happily use them to take a nap.[4]
- Try to grow a plant of cat grass near your cat’s private space. This special plant helps their digestive system and doesn’t trigger vomiting like garden grass.
- You can buy a basket for your cat at the pet shop. Look for one model that you can clean easily as it can get dirty or smelly over time.
- Let your cat look at a window. They love observing birds and people.

2. Provide entertainment. Cats are independent animals and will cope well when you’re at work. You can, however, make sure that they have enough toys to keep busy. You can buy cat toys in most pet shops and supermarkets. When you come home, don’t forget to play! Cats need exercise.[5]
- You can also do your own cat toys. Attach a piece of string on a door handle and let the cat go wild.
- Alternatively, you can offer your cat a ball. Your animal will chase it as a mouse.
- Don’t forget to provide a scratching post or else your couch will suffer.
- Use a laser or a flashlight and point it at the floor. Your cat will try to catch the light and will get very excited.

3. Adopt another cat. Cats work well on their own but are also happy to have company. You could consider taking another cat if you work long hours and if you have the space and the energy. Don’t forget to neuter them or you might end up with a feline army![6] To introduce a new cat, use the following steps:
- The resident cat will often display hostility at first. Isolate the new cat at first and let it get used to the room. Your old cat will not see it but will be able to scent it.
- Introduce your cats at mealtime but put the feeding stations at opposing sides of the room. Separate them after the meal and start again for the next days.
- After a few more days, let them meet but always monitor the situation. If there is any violence, separate them quickly and repeat the next day.