Mental stimulation is as important for a cat’s health as physical activity and a good diet. It is often overlooked but a cat that is not getting adequate mental stimulation is likely to suffer from mental health issues. Such cats are likely to experience boredom and show destructive behavior.
Toys play an important role in providing mental stimulation to cats. In this article, we’ll discuss puzzle toys and address a common question “Are puzzle toys the answer to stimulating your cat’s mind?” At the end of the article, we’ll share a list of 5 best puzzle toys for cats that provide mental stimulation.
Importance of Mental Stimulation in Cats
Cats are naturally curious pets and they like to explore their surroundings, and chase and capture toys. They get these instincts from their ancestors who lived in the wild and used to hunt for food. Even after thousands of years of their domestication, cats like to stay active and engaged. Mental challenges bring them mental satisfaction.
Mental stimulation plays an essential role in maintaining the ideal physical and mental health of a cat. It keeps the cat’s mind engaged and prevents boredom. So, indirectly, it prevents negative behaviors. Read more here about how cat toys can help with behavior problems.
Mental stimulation promotes physical activity in cats that helps keep muscles and joints fit and prevents obesity. Obesity is indirectly responsible for an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other serious health issues.
Puzzle Toys and Mental Stimulation
Puzzle toys stand out significantly among all other toys when it comes to providing mental stimulation to cats. So the simplest answer to “Are puzzle toys the answer to stimulating your cat’s mind?” is Yes, but one should not rely entirely on puzzle toys for the mental stimulation of his/her pet cat. Cats are likely to get bored of similar types of toys so adding various types of toys is always recommended.
Here’s an article that will help you choose best cat toys for every type of kitty.
Puzzle toys are amongst the favorite toys of cats because they offer mental challenges that keep them busy for hours. Most of the puzzle toys dispense food and treats when solved, aroma of the treat inside keeps cats motivated. The curiosity of the cats and the effort required to solve the puzzle offer mental stimulation.
Best Puzzle Toys for Mental Stimulation in Cats
Following are some of the best puzzle toys for cats.
Darling Interactive IQ Dog Treat Ball Toy Slow Feeder, Food Dispenser, Improves Digestion, Physical and Mental Stimulation，2021 Newest Puzzle Toys for Dog and Cats
The Darling Interactive treat ball toy is an excellent gift for curious cats because it dispenses food when the toy is rotated. It is a simple toy that can be rotated in any direction. Slow feeding improves digestion and prevents obesity. Physical activity provided keeps cats fit and moving.
The small size of the toy makes it a good option if you want to keep it along when traveling. It is made up of durable material that can endure the batting and swatting of an excited cat. In short, it is a great toy that provides mental stimulation and also dispenses treats.
Van Ness Pets Bamboozles Interactive Treat Dispenser Puzzle Toy for Cats
The Van Ness Pets Bamboozles interactive treat dispenser is a food-grade puzzle toy that not only provides physical activity but also offers mental stimulation. It is food-grade because it is made from 57% bamboo. The opening of the toy that dispenses treats can be controlled so indirectly you can control the calorie intake of your cat through treats.
An important feature of this puzzle toy that makes it better than others is that it is easy to clean. The silicon band can be removed to wash the toy thoroughly.
Catit Play Cat Treat Puzzle, Interactive Cat Toy, 43010, White
Catit cat treat puzzle makes cats work for treats that provides mental stimulation. It has 6 fun activities that keep cats engaged and entertained for hours. It is totally safe for cats even if you add hot food to it because it is made up of BPA-free material. You should always choose treat dispensing toys and food bowls made of BPA-free material.
This interactive cat toy encourages cats to express their natural instincts.
PetRageous 13005 Thinkrageous Interactive Intermediate Level Puzzle Piece Pet Toy Measures 9.84-Inch for Dogs and Cats and Ages, Blue
PetRageous interactive puzzle toy is a durable toy made from cardboard. The lids are made of high-quality plastic. You can put the favorite treats of your cat. Your cat will move the plastic lids after smelling the treats inside the holes. It has a simple design that is easy to clean.
It is equally suitable for cats of all sizes and ages.
Catit Cat Play Treat Spinner, Interactive Cat Toys
The Catit Cat Play treat spinner is one of the best puzzle toys because it encourages interactive play and physical activity. It promotes better digestion by slowing down the feeding process. This is also helpful in preventing obesity. The cover of the spinner is made of soft silicone that is easy to clean and refill.
The peculiar feature of this toy is that it makes cats use their multiple senses i.e. touch, smell, sight, and hearing.
