How Do I Know If My Cat Is Bored?

When we're bored, we'll mindlessly eat bad carbs or buy shoes online, but what does your cat do? "Often, cats who don't have enough mental or physical stimulation become bored. They may be left alone for hours with no other people or animals to interact with," says pet expert Krieger. "Bored Kitten Life" "In a boring environment - they have no toys to play with, no objects to climb on, and no other mental stimulation."

Excessive grooming or other repetitive behaviors.

Cats may repeatedly lick themselves, pluck their fur, or chew/bite their skin, causing irritation that prompts them to continue this frustrating behavior.

Chasing or fighting with other domestic animals.

Chasing other cats in the house, trying to corner a dog, or stalking a guinea pig are all signs that your cat needs additional stimulation. "While there are many other causes for this behavior," Krieger says, "bored cats will sometimes annoy and chase other pets."

Inactive.

Cats nap for an average of 15 hours a day, so it's not uncommon for pet parents to find their cats resting. But if your cat's natural curiosity isn't kicking in, it could be a sign of boredom. "While cats typically spend most of the day napping, they also have time for activity, such as climbing and playing," Krieger said. "Some cats who receive little or no stimulation become couch potatoes." If your cat simply moves from the couch to the food bowl, you may have a bored cat on your hands.

Your cat is moping around the house.

If your cat seems moody or uninterested in things, even food, this may be a sign that he's not getting enough activity or mental stimulation. However, if this behavior continues even after you make positive changes to your cat's environment to increase activity, it's important to see your veterinarian.

Create their own version of stimulation.

Cats looking for trouble will often find it, especially if you have an expensive new quilt on your bed. Bored cats will sometimes create their own entertainment, such as playing with toilet paper rolls, climbing on curtains, or engaging in other undesirable behaviors. "

Overeating.

Bored cats and bored humans are on the same page in this regard. They eat and eat, not to satisfy their hunger, but to find something to do. Overeating can lead to obesity, which further frustrates the cat.

Krieger explains that while all of these signs may be symptoms of boredom, they may also indicate health or behavioral issues. She reminds cat parents that any possible medical causes should be investigated to rule out health issues.