How can you tell if your cat is bored? After all cats, like us, get bored sometimes.

Cats get bored when they do not have enough mental or physical simulation to keep them busy. They might not have toys to play with or surfaces to climb on. If their boredom lasts a long time, it can eventually lead to depression or destructive behaviours.

So what are some of the clues to look for when you think they might be bored?

*Please note, it is always a good idea to have a vet check for allergies, or to do an elimination diet and check yourself. Many of the issues below can also be caused by food allergies and should be addressed asap.

1. Repetitive behaviours

Repetitive behaviours can include over grooming, pulling out fur, or biting their skin. Your cat will groom themselves on a regular basis but if they start doing it more and more frequently (to new extremes) it can be a big indicator of boredom. Over grooming can eventually lead to irritation of the skin, causing them to groom even more.

2. Inactivity/Sleeping a lot

Cats tend to sleep for an average of 15 hours a day. If you catch your cat napping it isn’t an immediate sign of boredom. However, if you notice that your cat is more sluggish or sleeping too often it can quickly become an obvious sign that your cat is bored.

3. Overeating or Under eating

If your cat is bored they may decide to eat just to pass time. If you notice that your cat is eating more than usual this can be a sign that you need to provide some mental/physical simulation for them. Alternatively you may notice that your cat isn’t eating. Obviously this is not good for your cat so maybe try changing up their diet or giving them something to do.

4. Picking Fights with Other Pets

If you have any other pets in the house, you may notice your cat trying to corner or chase them around the house. There can be other reasons for this kind of behaviour but it is also an indicator of boredom in your feline friend.

5. Messing up the House

This can include…

• Scratching furniture (even when they have a scratching post)
• Pouncing on lamps
• Knocking things off shelves
• Shredding toilet paper and leaving it around the house

This is a cats way of showing that they need some simulating activity. When you clean up their mess, some cats will see it as spending time together.

6. Meowing loudly

If your cat is bored they may begin to meow loudly and frequently for a while. This could be your cat’s way of catching your attention and/or amusing themselves.

7. Not Using the Litter Box

You may start to notice cat turds or urine around the house. This can be a potential sign of boredom in your little kitty. Make sure that you rule out any potential health issues before deciding that the cause of this behaviour is boredom.

Solutions

• Provide toy variety- There are many toys available for cats. Try rotating which toys they play with to keep them interested.
• Boxes- Cats love boxes. Before deciding to throw away a box consider giving it to your cat for a while.
• Scratching Posts- They can be found online and in pet stores. It allows your cat to freely claw and scratch at something without ruining your furniture and it is satisfying for them.
• Playtime/Cuddles- Interaction is an essential to your cats happiness. It’s a good idea to choose something that gives them a chance to do their natural behaviours such as chasing and pouncing.
• Climbing Challenges- Cats feel safe and superior on perches. They like to examine their surroundings from above. You could purchase a cat tower or DIY a cat gym around the house. Its recommended that you provide your furry feline with a variety of climbing opportunities.
• Bringing them outside– If you want to bring your cat outside, consider buying a harness with a long leash and attaching it somewhere in your yard so they can practice their hunting, stalking, and pouncing skills. Keep in mind that not all cats enjoy being outside.