Enliven Their Day

By our standards, cats and dogs don't seem to do much other than sleep, eat and play. A little love and attention and they seem perfectly content. However, if your pet is engaging in digging, chewing or some other frustrating behavior, he may need more excitement in his life than he’s been getting. Bored pets are destructive pets. Here are some easy ways to help fill that void:

- Begin with a romp: A little exercise might get that energy out of their system. You don't have to kill them with fatigue, but you want them to feel tired enough to settle down for a while.

- Turn on the tube: Television can provide real entertainment and can help alleviate boredom for some dogs and even cats. Leave the television on a channel he might enjoy and see if it helps.

- Or play a video: Many pet stores now carry action-packed videos designed especially for dogs and cats.

- Make it Beethoven: Filling the room with music can keep things from getting dull. Dogs that are vocally inclined will get a special kick out of these music sessions.

- Phone home: Some people call from work and leave a message on the answering machine so their pets can hear their voices. It could help, but if your pet is likely to be sleeping, you'd best leave well enough alone.

- Watch the birdies: Try setting a bird feeder outside the window. Cats and some dogs enjoy a little bird-watching.

- Or try a few fish: An aquarium of fish can provide entertainment for both you and your pet. It’s important, though, that you use a covered aquarium, so entertainment doesn't become dinner.

- Exercise her mind: If your cat is looking for something to do, give her a mental challenge. Pet stores sell puzzles, but it’s easy to make your own. Cut holes in the sides of a shirt box or shoebox and put a table tennis ball inside. Make the holes big enough for your cat to put her arm through, but not big enough for the ball to come out. A dog’s version of this game could be to apply a little peanut butter, cream cheese or your pet’s favorite food into a hollow dog toy. (This is assuming your dog’s health allows him to eat these things). You'll be surprised how long they are entertained.

Especially For CATS:

- Help her chase rainbows: Cats are fascinated by almost anything that moves, including light. Crystals hanging in the windows will cause enchanting, chase-able patterns on the floor, walls and furniture, helping keep cats occupied.

Giving your pet extra attention is probably the best way to avoid that void. Happily, this is a most enjoyable task :)

What is your special tip for keeping your pets from boredom?

*These tips are home remedies only and should not ever be used as a substitute for any treatment that may have been prescribed by your veterinarian. If your pet has a medical problem, we urge you to seek competent medical care.

Alice England
Makingstuffwithlove.etsy.com