by CeeGunn

Created on: January 16, 2009

Cats are wonderful pets and loving companions. But they can be a little troublesome if they get bored in the house and chew up your favorite house plant or knock over your expensive lamp.

Many cat owners are now keeping their cats indoors all the time. This is for the health and safety of the cat, but it does mean that the cat may need a few things to keep entertained. Here are some suggestions.

WINDOWS

Cats can spend hours looking out a nice window, watching the world go by. Even if you live in an apartment, a cat will be fascinated by the scene far below and the birds far above. If your windowsill is large enough, place a blanket or cushion there for your cat to sit on. If your windowsill is too narrow, you can attach a shelf to the edge to extend it out. You can crack open the window a tiny bit to let the air in, but be warned that cats can squeeze through very small spaces when they are determined. It's best to make sure there is a very strong screen on the outside of the window to prevent any escapes. Cats especially love windows that get sun. Basking in the warmth of the sunshine is a cat's favorite way to pass a winter's day.

TOYS

Energetic and mischievous cats can tear a house apart when they get bored. Cat toys are relatively inexpensive when purchased from a pet store and even cheaper when made at home. A simple rubber ball can amuse a kitten for a long time. Try buying various toys and test them out with your cat to see what they prefer. Toys that can be hung from doorknobs or hooks can create a fun game of kitty tetherball. Even objects around your house can become toys. Throw balls of crinkled paper, bottle caps, or rolled up socks. Leave out large paper bags or empty boxes for your cat to hide in. Empty toilet paper tubes can be stuffed with cotton balls and a little bit of dried catnip for a fun playtoy.

ANOTHER CAT

If your cat is lonely and bored, consider getting them a kitty friend. Of course, don't expect that friendship to be instantaneous. Cats can sometimes take offense to a new member of the house, but over time and with patience, cats can learn to love each other. Having two cats gives them a chance to interact with one of their own kind and also someone to cuddle with when you are at work or out of the house.

TV

Yes, cats sometimes like to watch TV, especially if the scenes are fast-moving. Flip through the channels to see what your cat likes best. Some cats enjoy nature shows, others enjoy car racing. KittyShow.com even offers DVDs for your cat to watch that includes birds and bugs. These DVDs run continuously so you can leave them running while you're out of the house.

In conclusion, remember that cats actually sleep on average 12 to 16 hours per day, so they have a lot of energy when they are awake. Enjoy your kitty and play with them when you can, and provide them with entertainment they can use themselves when you're not available.

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