February 2025

Fun Activities and DIY Enrichment Ideas

Winter can be a tough season for indoor cats. With shorter days and colder temperatures, their usual sunbathing spots and bird-watching windows might not be as appealing. Boredom can lead to stress, mischief, or even weight gain, so keeping your feline friend mentally and physically stimulated is essential. Luckily, you don’t need a big backyard to keep your cat happy—whether you’re in one of our ESV apartments or townhomes, there are plenty of ways to make winter exciting for your furry companion.

Create a Cozy Cat-Watching Spot

Even in winter, cats love to watch the world go by. Set up a warm and comfortable window perch where your cat can observe outdoor activity. Placing a soft blanket on a windowsill or investing in a suction-cup window seat can make for the perfect viewing station. If there’s not much action outside, consider placing a bird feeder near your window—just be sure to keep your cat at a safe distance to prevent too much frustration!

DIY Indoor Obstacle Courses & Play Areas

With fewer daylight hours, your cat might have extra energy to burn. Transform your apartment or townhome into a mini adventure park by setting up obstacle courses using boxes, tunnels, or cat trees. If space is limited, wall-mounted shelves or vertical scratching posts can provide your cat with climbing opportunities without taking up floor space. Rotating toys or rearranging furniture slightly can also help create a sense of novelty and encourage exploration.

Interactive Playtime & Puzzle Feeders

A bored cat is often a mischievous cat! Make playtime a daily habit with interactive toys like laser pointers, feather wands, or motorized mice. These activities mimic hunting and keep your cat engaged. Food puzzles and treat-dispensing toys are another great way to provide mental stimulation—your cat will love working for their snacks while staying entertained. You can even make your own puzzle feeder by cutting holes in a cardboard box and hiding treats inside.

Bring the Outdoors Inside with Cat Grass & Scent Enrichment

Since your cat won’t be exploring the great outdoors in winter, why not bring a little nature inside? Cat grass or catnip plants are easy to grow in small spaces and give your feline a safe way to chew on greenery. You can also introduce new scents, like dried leaves or safe essential oils (such as lavender or chamomile), to stimulate their senses and keep things interesting.

Cuddle Time & Comfort

Winter is the perfect time for extra snuggles! Many cats seek warmth during the colder months, so providing soft, heated beds or fleece blankets can make your apartment or townhome even more inviting. Consider setting up a cozy nook with a warm blanket near a radiator or sunny window where your cat can curl up and relax.

A Happy Cat Makes for a Happy Home

Keeping your cat entertained during the winter doesn’t have to be complicated. A mix of engaging toys, cozy resting spots, and interactive play will help prevent boredom and keep your feline happy all season long. With a little creativity, your apartment or townhome can become the ultimate indoor playground—no matter how cold it is outside!