5 Simple DIY Pet Enrichment Ideas for Your Dog or Cat
Just like us, our pets need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Without enough enrichment, dogs and cats can become bored, anxious, or even develop unwanted behaviors. Luckily, there are plenty of fun and easy DIY activities you can create at home to keep your furry friend engaged and entertained! Below, we’ll share five simple DIY pet enrichment ideas you can try today, and we’ll also explain how a well-rounded diet and supplements like Happy Scratch contribute to your pet’s overall well-being.
1. Puzzle Toys from Everyday Items
You don’t need to spend a lot of money on fancy puzzle toys—many can be made with items you already have at home! For dogs, try stuffing an empty toilet paper roll with treats or kibble and folding the ends closed. Cats might enjoy batting at treats placed inside an empty egg carton or a muffin tin.
This simple activity provides mental stimulation as your pet works to figure out how to get the reward. You can make it more challenging by hiding the treats in layers of paper or fabric.
2. Scent Games for Sensory Stimulation
Both dogs and cats love to use their noses! Scent games are a great way to challenge your pet’s natural instincts. Try hiding treats or toys around the house and encouraging your pet to find them. For cats, you can sprinkle a little catnip on different toys to add excitement. For dogs, scatter their kibble in the yard or create a DIY “snuffle mat” using a fleece blanket with hidden treats.
Scent-based games are fantastic for both mental and physical exercise, and they engage your pet’s natural foraging instincts.
3. Interactive Playtime with Homemade Toys
A little creativity goes a long way when it comes to interactive play! Dogs will love chasing a homemade flirt pole—a long stick with a toy or rope attached to the end. Cats can’t resist a DIY wand toy made from a stick, some string, and a feather or small toy tied at the end.
These types of toys encourage active play and strengthen your bond with your pet as you engage together in a fun, rewarding activity.
4. Food Dispensing Toys for Mealtime Fun
Turn mealtime into an enrichment activity by using food-dispensing toys. You can make one at home by cutting small holes in a plastic bottle and placing kibble or treats inside. Your dog or cat will have to roll the bottle around to get the food to fall out. For cats, you can also freeze small portions of wet food in an ice cube tray to create a fun, cool treat.
This kind of activity provides both physical and mental stimulation while slowing down fast eaters.
5. Obstacle Courses for Exercise
Create a simple obstacle course in your living room or backyard using household items like chairs, blankets, and cushions. Teach your dog to weave through cones or jump over a broomstick laid across two low objects. For cats, place boxes and tunnels around the house for them to explore and climb through.
These activities offer a fun way to engage your pet’s body and mind, while also giving them some much-needed physical exercise.
How Happy Scratch Complements Your Pet’s Well-Being
While DIY enrichment activities are essential for keeping your pet happy and engaged, don’t forget that their overall health starts from the inside! A balanced diet and the right supplements can support their long-term well-being.
Happy Scratch is a natural supplement designed to support your dog’s or cat’s immune system and skin health. It helps target the root causes of common issues, making it a great addition to your pet’s daily routine alongside these fun activities.
By adding DIY pet enrichment activities into your dog’s or cat’s day, you can help them stay mentally sharp, physically fit, and emotionally balanced. Pair these ideas with a healthy diet and supplements like Happy Scratch to ensure your pet is living their best life!
