8 Indoor Games to Beat Winter Boredom for Dogs and Cats
Short days, icy sidewalks and cold snaps mean a lot less outdoor time in winter. Bored pets often find their own entertainment, like chewing, scratching or zooming around at midnight. A few minutes of play and "brain work" each day can make a big difference.
For dogs
1. Snuffle and sniff games
Sniffing is mentally tiring for dogs in a good way. Hide pieces of kibble or treats in a snuffle mat and let your dog search for them. It also slows down fast eaters. Try our Carrot Snuffle Mat Puzzle Toy.
2. Find it
Ask your dog to sit and stay, hide a treat somewhere in the room, then say "find it." Make it harder as they get better.
3. Lick mat time
Spread a thin layer of a dog-safe food on a lick mat. Licking is calming and keeps dogs busy during baths, nail trims or when you need 15 quiet minutes. Try the Silicone Lick Mat with Suction Cups.
4. Hallway fetch and tug
A soft toy and a hallway are all you need. Keep sessions short and stop before your dog gets overexcited. Our Squeaky Plush Dinosaur is a favorite for this.
For cats
5. Hunt the moving toy
Cats are built to chase. A toy that moves on its own triggers that hunting instinct even when you're busy. Try the Self-Moving Interactive Toy Ball or the Automatic Rolling Cat Toy Ball with Tail.
6. Treat trail
Place a few treats along a path through the house, including up on a chair or cat tree, so your cat climbs and explores.
7. Box fort
An empty cardboard box with a couple of holes cut in it becomes a hideout. Toss a toy inside and watch.
8. Scratch and stretch station
Winter means more time indoors and more scratching. Give your cat an approved spot near where they like to nap, like a Cardboard Cat Scratcher Pad.
Safety first
- Supervise play with any toy, and put toys away if they get damaged.
- Use treats in small amounts and count them as part of your pet's daily food.
- Charge battery-powered toys away from pets.
Find more ideas in our Toys collection. Questions? Email support@dearwhisker.com.