Recognizing boredom in your cat: symptoms, causes, impacts and solutions
A bored cat exhibits a variety of symptoms that can affect their overall well-being. Animal behavior research confirms that cats deprived of physical and mental stimulation show signs of stress and frustration, which influence their health and behavior.
Symptoms of Boredom in Cats
Signs of boredom include:
- Destructive behaviors : Scratching furniture or chewing objects to release energy.
- Lethargy : If a cat sleeps more than 15-16 hours a day, it may be suffering from boredom or even feline depression, which is recognized by veterinary behaviorists.
- Excessive grooming : This can be a sign of boredom-induced stress and can cause skin disorders.
Causes of boredom
Cats are solitary and naturally curious hunters, so they need stimulation to avoid frustration. Studies show that a lack of activity (especially for indoor cats) limits the chances of instinctual satisfaction, leading to boredom.
Impact on health
A cat lacking mental stimulation is at risk of developing anxiety and even compulsive behaviors. According to veterinarians, chronic boredom can even promote behavioral diseases and obesity, which are linked to a sedentary lifestyle.
Solutions: Interactive games to combat boredom
Interactive toys, such as those offered by the Happy Cat range, help keep cats occupied by appealing to their hunting instincts. A study conducted by the University of Lincoln has shown that interactive toys help reduce stress in cats, by increasing their physical activity and improving their overall behaviour.