Fun cat activities to try in summer

When it comes to playtime, people often think of dogs as being more engaged than cats – but many cats love to play, too.

While they might enjoy spending some of the summer snoozing in the sun and resting to keep cool, you can offer them some physical and mental stimulation with these summer cat enrichment activities.

Cats are natural hunters and foragers, and love to investigate interesting scents, tastes and anything else that takes their fancy. So why not create your own cat hunting box for them to explore to their heart’s content?

Find a box or a tray with sides and fill it with some of your cat’s favourite food treats and toys. Then, mix them up with filler objects such as seasonal leaves and twigs, and let your cat satisfy their natural exploratory urges by rooting through the contents. You can also place the box in the garden to avoid them making a mess indoors.

Frozen treats can be really refreshing for cats, providing them with an intriguing tasting experience while helping them avoid overheating.

It’s easy to make your own DIY frozen cat treats at home. Try freezing the liquid from tinned tuna in spring water, soup-style cat food or a homemade meaty broth in an ice cube tray. Avoid shop-bought broths or anything that may contain garlic, salt or other ingredients that your cat shouldn’t eat, as these can be dangerous.

To make a simple broth, boil some fresh meat in water until cooked, allow the resulting liquid to cool, and skim off any fat before freezing into ice cubes. You could include a little meat, such as tuna, in each ice cube to give your cat something to work towards.

Your cat’s favourite spot in the garden may get a little too hot during the peak of summer, so why not build a catio or create a shady fort for them to relax in? You could use garden furniture or sheets held up by clothes pegs. Just position them to block the sun’s rays.

You could even attach a catio to a window frame or create a balcony catio with mesh panels to keep your cat safe. If you have more outdoor space, you could buy a large garden cardio and attach it to your house to give your cat access as they please.

One of the most common myths about cats is that they hate water. While they may not necessarily love a bath, plenty of felines do enjoy making a splash – look out for them batting or lapping from a running tap. A cat fountain makes a great gift for these cats, allowing them to drink or play with the flowing water without getting drenched.

Alternatively, fill a small bowl with water and float some waterproof cat toys on top for your pet. Many cats will enjoy tapping the toys and doing a spot of ‘fishing’.

If you have outdoor space, you could create an area for your cat with plants – including edible herbs – they can sniff and eat, such as basil, rosemary and thyme. Of course, some plants are poisonous to cats, so ensure the plants you choose are safe. 

If you have indoor cats and you’re after cat enrichment activities, why not pique their interest with some cat-safe houseplants instead? 

Some felines are fascinated by bubbles – and if you use a non-toxic, pet-safe bubble mixture, they can enjoy pouncing on them to their heart’s content. 

Special catnip bubbles are even available, infused with plant extracts, for extra enrichment.

Is it too warm for more strenuous or energetic play? If so, you could use a puzzle feeder to give your cat some enrichment without tiring them out completely. These are a great way for  indoor cats to get some physical and mental exercise. 

You can buy puzzle feeders or make your own using empty toilet paper or kitchen roll cardboard tubes, or boxes with small holes cut into them.

Birdwatching is a pastime that humans and felines can enjoy together, so if your cat likes looking out of the window, you could hang up a bird feeder outside and create a comfy spot for your cat to relax and watch the birds. It’s not exclusively cat enrichment – so you can join them too!

Seasonal changes can affect your cat’s routine more than you might think. In the summer, when the weather tends to be warmer, you might find that your cat sleeps more during the day but is more active at night or during dusk and dawn. 

It’s important to ensure they have places to go where they can stay cool, and that they have the option of both physically and mentally stimulating games.

Be mindful of the risks of the hot weather, too, such as dehydration and heatsroke. If you’re concerned about your cat and have cat insurance with Petplan, you can access our Pet Expert Chat by logging into your My Petplan account and speaking with a vet about your cat’s symptoms.

Above all, remember that – while play is stimulating for cats – sometimes your pet might not be in the mood and will simply want to rest. Don’t force toys or cat games on them, but let them choose to engage. Also, bear in mind that a cat’s attention may not last for long.

Older and younger cats also need more rest time than adults and may be more susceptible to the summer heat. While kittens may have the energy to keep playing, be mindful of their age and take a break if you suspect they’re getting tired.