Signs That Your Cat Needs More Stimulation
Cats are naturally curious, intelligent, and athletic hunters that demand plenty of mental and physical stimulation to fight off signs of boredom. Your pet cats in Australia, minus their ability to hunt outdoors, may get under-stimulated, and this is sometimes bound to lead to other problems, such as behavioural issues, overeating or loss of appetite, excessive sleeping, and various destructive activities. Here is a list of the top seven signs your cat needs more stimulation.
Excessively grooming itself
Cats can lick and clean themselves constantly to the point that they create bald patches or cause skin irritation in themselves. Many cats resort to excessive self-grooming as a means of soothing themselves when their owners under-stimulate them. Cats are mainly playful, active, and athletic animals that need ample physical and mental stimulation, and poor provision may bring forth behavioural problems and unhealthy habits in them.
Destructive behaviour
Cats get bored and under-stimulated, where they start shredding curtains, chewing everything around them in the house, scratching furniture, breaking things by pushing them, etc. Such types of destructive activities are their way of expressing that they need more attention and stimulation in life and could be regarded as a cry for help.
Lack of interest in toys
Different varieties of toys are essential for Australian home cats. The inclusion of toys will engage them both physically and mentally. If you notice that your cat is becoming disinterested or indifferent to its toys, or it has lost interest in the play, then it could be a valid begging-for-attention sign that it faces boredom and under-stimulation.
Increased vocalisation
Cats that are bored or under-stimulated, often meow or howl excessively, and this can again be their cry for attention. An increased vocalisation is their way of communicating their needs to you, and that they require more interaction, and physical and mental stimulation altogether.
Sleeping more than usual
Yes, it is indeed normal for cats to sleep for extended periods. However, excessive sleeping can, more often than not, be signs of boredom and under stimulation. Cats sleep to pass the time when they lack interaction, communication, and stimulation. It is very important to keep your cats engaged with fun and interactive activities to ensure they’re stimulated adequately.
Overeating or loss of appetite
Boredom and under stimulation in pet cats in Australia can also affect their overall eating habits. Some cats may eat way more than what they’re used to as a way to combat boredom and a lack of interest in everything else. A few cats may also lose interest in eating anything and may sleep their entire day. Changes in the appetite in cats are a clear indication that they’re either suffering from a certain health issue or they’re bored and emotionally drained.
Attention seeking behaviour
Cats may resort to various attention seeking behaviours like constantly pawing at you, climbing on your lap every now and then, or demanding frequent petting when they’re bored. This way, they’re seeking stimulation and interaction from their human companions.
Cats are lively, engaging, and athletic, therefore, they need mental and physical stimulation to avoid boredom, which causes numerous health issues. The more stimulated your cats, the better cat boarding and other experiences will go when you leave them behind.
