Have you noticed your cat sleeping in the same spot all day, uninterested in its surroundings or avoiding playtime? It might not just be laziness—it could be a sign of depression. Yes, cats can feel down too, and indoor cats are especially vulnerable.
We often think of cats as aloof or self-sufficient, but the truth is, they are sensitive, intelligent creatures with deep emotional lives. They may not show sadness the way humans do, but they feel it. A cat can grieve the loss of a beloved companion, feel anxious after a move, or grow listless from the quiet monotony of indoor life.
Imagine being confined to a single apartment for your entire life—with no new places to explore, no challenges to solve, and nothing to hunt. That’s often what an indoor cat experiences without proper enrichment. Over time, they may become withdrawn, stop playing, overeat or stop eating, and sleep more than usual—not because they’re relaxed, but because they’re disengaged.
Enrichment is how we help our cats feel alive again. It’s about bringing back the spark in their eyes, the curiosity in their step, and the joy in their daily routine.
Here are some ways you can brighten your cat’s world:
Bring back the hunt
Even the gentlest lap cat has the heart of a hunter. Wand toys, feather teasers, and laser pointers give your cat a chance to stalk, chase, and pounce—behaviours they were born to express. A ten-minute play session each day can lift their spirits more than you might expect.
Make mealtime an adventure
Use puzzle feeders or hide kibble around the house. Let them “work” for their food like they would in the wild. It keeps their minds sharp and their instincts engaged.
Create vertical worlds
Cats feel safer and more confident when they can perch up high. Install cat trees or shelves, or just clear space on a windowsill. A window overlooking the hustle and bustle of the outside world can quickly become their favourite spot.
Refresh the toy box
Toys lose their magic when they’re always available. Hide some away and rotate them weekly. Your cat will think they’re getting something new and exciting.
Engage their senses
Catnip or silvervine can add variety to their day. Let them sniff and explore at their own pace.
Be their safe place
Speak to them gently. Offer affection when they seek it. Maintain consistent routines. Cats rely on predictability and familiar surroundings to feel secure.
Don’t let them be lonely
Some cats enjoy the company of another feline friend, especially if they're young or social. But even if they're solo, your companionship means everything to them.
Your cat might not be able to tell you they’re bored, anxious, or grieving—but they feel it all the same. With a little time, creativity, and love, you can help them feel like themselves again. Enrichment isn’t just entertainment—it’s how we show our cats that their lives matter, that we see them and that we care.
In that moment when your cat starts to chase, purr, and explore with wonder again—you’ll know their spirit is awake, and you helped bring it back.
