Did you know that treats can serve a purpose other than spoiling your cat? They can work as enrichment tools that encourage exploring, problem-solving, and interactive play. Plus, they can help reward and reinforce positive behaviour.
With these simple strategies, treats can turn enrichment and playtime into something your cat looks forward to every day.
Why can treats be helpful for enrichment and playtime?
Catit Nibbly Jerky treats, meowboxshop
Cats are natural problem-solvers and explorers. Giving them opportunities to sniff, search, and "work" for treats taps into those instincts in a healthy, rewarding way.
Using treats during play can help your cat:
- Stay active
- Use their brain while they play
- Build confidence in new situations
- Associate positive feelings with you, other pets and their environment
- Slow down fast eating
Pairing treats with enrichment activities turns ordinary play into exciting, rewarding and tasty experiences for your kitty.
How should I choose treats for enrichment?
Emerald Pet Feline Health Chews, meowboxshop
When choosing treats for enrichment time, think about:
- Size: smaller treats are easier for kitty to eat during games
- Texture: some cats love crunchy, others may prefer softer treats
- Smell: scent is often what entices your cat first
- Portions: treats should be offered in small amounts and should not replace meals
If your cat has health issues or dietary restrictions, you can consult your veterinarian about which treats they recommend.
How can I use treats during playtime in a fun way?
Treats can make playtime feel more exciting, especially for cats who are food-motivated and may need a little extra encouragement.
You can try:
- Hiding treats in different spots for your cat to "hunt"
- Creating a DIY food puzzle by tucking treats inside an empty paper towel roll or cardboard box with holes cut out of it
- Offering a treat as a reward after they "catch" a toy
- Rolling a treat across the floor for your cat to chase and pounce
Even short play sessions can be effective in providing kitty the enrichment they need.
Can treats help shy or cautious cats feel more comfortable?
Absolutely! For many cats, treats are a way to communicate something new is safe.
Treats can be especially helpful when:
- Getting your cat used to a new space or room
- Introducing your cat to a new pet
- Training your cat to become more comfortable in stressful situations (using their carrier, taking medication, or getting their teeth brushed)
Move slowly. Let your cat decide how close they want to get. The goal is to build trust, one small reward at a time.
How do I make sure my cat doesn’t get too many treats?
It’s important to keep treats in moderation to avoid overfeeding.
To keep enrichment healthy:
- Break treats into smaller pieces, if possible
- Rotate between treat-based games and toys that don’t require treats
- Pair treats with exercise
- Encourage your cat to "hunt" for the treats, which offers a fun challenge and slows down eating
How can meowbox make enrichment easier (and more fun)?
Cats thrive when they have a rotating variety of toys, treats and activities to explore.
Each meowbox cat subscription box comes with fun new toys and treats in different textures, flavours, and nutritional benefits to keep playtime and snacktime exciting.
meowbox makes it easy to:
- Rotate toys regularly (wands, kickers, teasers, catnip plushies, food puzzles, scratcher toys and more)
- Try out different treats that can be incorporated into play sessions
- Keep your cat mentally stimulated
- Bond with your cat as you unbox your goodies
Choose between monthly or every-other-month plans at checkout.
Ready to make your cat's playtime extra special?
With these simple tips, treats can improve play, bonding, and everyday enrichment that supports kitty's wellbeing.
If you want an easy way to bring more surprise and variety right to your cat's paws, try your first meowbox here.