Keeping your pets entertained and mentally stimulated can be great for their well-being. Some believe it may be just as important as taking your dog out on a daily walk. This could be simply playing with their favourite toy to a hunt for treats!

Here are just some of the benefits of these activities[1]:

• Brain Health and Development: Mental exercise for pets of all ages can enhance brain functions, memory, and problem-solving skills.
• Behavioural Challenges and Enrichment: Tailored mental stimulation may prevent behavioural issues and enhances quality of life
• Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Interactive games and activities could provide pets with positive outlets, reducing stress and promoting calmness.
• Slowing Cognitive Decline in Aging Pets: Mentally stimulating activities possibly help slow cognitive decline in senior pets, keeping them alert and engaged.

Here are four activities that are suitable for both your cat and dog:

1. Buy Interactive Toys

Interactive toys are great for pets, offering mental stimulation, physical exercise, and reducing anxiety. Toys like puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing gadgets, challenge pets to solve problems, keeping their minds sharp and can distract them from destructive behaviours like chewing shoes​​​ [2]​. They usually have to work out a way to get the toy to release a treat.

More physical toys like balls, frisbees, and tug ropes may help with heart health, maintaining a healthy weight, and strengthening muscles​[3]​. Your dog or cat might prefer interactive play, where they play with you rather than with a toy alone. This can significantly reduce anxiety and boredom, improving pets’ overall well-being and increasing the bond between you and your pet[4].

2. Make Treasure Hunts and Scent Trails

Did you know that sniffing has many benefits for both cats and dogs? In dogs, sniffing can be very calming, as it releases the mood boosting chemical in their brain known as dopamine[5]. Sniffing also provides mental enrichment for cats, stimulating their brains. This can help reduce their stress and anxiety.

To create a treasure hunt or scent trail, you can hide treats around the house or within toys and let your pets use their noses to find them. This stimulates their natural hunting instincts and provides physical exercise as well as a tasty reward at the end of it. If you’re limited on space, a snuffle mat is perfect to hide treats within the layers of fabric and allow your pet to find them.

3. Hold Training Sessions

A great way to bond with your pet and keep them amused is to spend time teaching them new tricks. Positive reinforcement training can not only strengthen your bond but also keeps their minds active. Some tricks can be for fun, like teaching your pet to ‘high five’. While other tricks are a useful way to teach your pet discipline. For example, teaching your pet to ‘watch’ you is a great way to avoid fixating on other dogs or people while you are out walking.

To train your pet effectively, stock up on high-value treats, such as cooked meats or cheese, to help your pet associate your commands with rewards. Use these treats sparingly, as overuse may cause your pet to lose interest and put on weight[6]. You can find some easy ways to train your dog and cat online.

4. Make a DIY Obstacle Course

Creating a DIY obstacle or agility course for your pets at home is a fun way to keep them active and entertained. Start by assessing how much room you have and planning the course with tunnels, jumps, and poles. You can use the garden or even your living room if you have the space. You could use household items like cardboard boxes, broomsticks, and hula hoops. Introduce your pet to the course using treats and encouragement, and you can adjust the difficulty as they improve. Ensure the course is safe and enjoy the process of spending quality time with your pet.

While keeping your pet entertained with activities can be terrific for their well-being, ensuring they are protected in case of accidents or unexpected health issues is just as important. Pet insurance can offer peace of mind, helping you cover the costs of unforeseen medical expenses so you can focus on enjoying the playful moments with your furry friend.

Get a Pet Insurance quote today!

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[1] https://coape.org/the-importance-of-mental-stimulation-for-pets/

[2] https://www.guidedogs.org.uk/getting-support/information-and-advice/dog-care-and-welfare/dog-enrichment-ideas/

[3] https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-advice/brain-games-dogs

[4] https://socialpawscheltenham.co.uk/enrichment-important-dogs/

[5] The importance of sniffing for dogs | Dogs Trust

[6] Guide to High Value Treats and Dog Training | Direct4Pet