When the days get colder and darker across Canada, it is easy for indoor routines to feel repetitive. Cats still need opportunities to chase, scratch, explore, hide and rest—even when the snow is piling up outside.
The good news: you do not need an expensive room makeover or a cupboard full of gadgets. A few short play sessions, household objects and well-placed scratching spots can add variety to your cat's day.
1. Try short, interactive hunting games
Use a wand toy to imitate a small animal moving across the floor, pausing and darting away. Let your cat stalk, pounce and sometimes catch the toy. A few short sessions can be more appealing than one long session, especially for older or less active cats. Ontario SPCA recommends brief, rewarding interactive sessions of about 5–10 minutes.
Keep strings, ribbons and wand toys out of reach when playtime ends, and never encourage your cat to chase your hands or feet.
2. Rotate toys instead of leaving everything out
Pick two or three favourites, put the others away and swap them every few days. Even familiar toys can become interesting again when they reappear. Choose toys that are large enough not to be swallowed, inspect them for loose pieces, and remove anything damaged.
A rolling toy can offer a different kind of chase from a wand toy. Our Ball-in-Ball Interactive Toy is one option to consider, provided its size and design suit your particular cat. Introduce any new toy with supervision.
3. Create a simple cardboard-box adventure
Place one or two clean cardboard boxes on the floor, with openings large enough for your cat to enter and leave comfortably. Move them around occasionally or place a toy just inside an opening to invite exploration. A paper bag without handles can also become a hiding place.
Remove staples, tape, string handles and small detachable pieces. Do not force a hesitant cat inside; simply leave the box out and allow them to investigate.
4. Make mealtime a gentle puzzle
Instead of always serving the full portion in one bowl, hide a few pieces of your cat's regular dry food in safe, easy-to-reach places or use a suitable food puzzle. Start with an easy challenge and increase the difficulty only if your cat enjoys it.
Use food from their normal daily allowance rather than adding extra calories. If your cat follows a prescription diet or has a medical condition, ask your veterinarian before changing feeding routines.
5. Offer a sturdy place to scratch and stretch
Scratching helps cats stretch and express normal behaviour. Some prefer a tall vertical post; others like a horizontal scratching surface. Stability matters: a post that tips may discourage use.
We have a separate Canadian guide to choosing a cat scratching post that explains height, materials and placement. For a vertical option, see our Noba Classic 28-inch Scratching Post. For cats that prefer lower surfaces, the Hammock Scratchable Cat House combines a hiding area with scratchable surfaces.
6. Make a safe lookout or quiet retreat
Many cats enjoy watching movement outdoors from a secure window perch. Keep windows fully closed or protected against falls, and check that nearby furniture is stable. A warm, quiet resting spot away from drafts gives your cat somewhere to recharge after play.
Not every cat wants to be high up. An easy-to-access hideaway on the floor may be more comfortable for a senior cat or one with mobility limitations.
7. Use scent sparingly
Some cats are interested in catnip and may explore a new scratcher more readily when a small amount is used. Others barely react at all—that is normal. If you choose a product such as Noba Mist Catnip Spray, follow the product instructions and avoid spraying directly onto your cat.
Skip essential oils and strongly scented DIY mixtures; some substances commonly used in homes can be harmful to cats. When in doubt, keep enrichment simple and unscented.
8. Follow your cat's lead
Some cats race after toys, while others prefer a gentle game of hide-and-seek. Watch for signs that your cat wants a break, such as walking away, hiding or becoming unusually agitated. End on a positive note rather than pushing for more activity.
If your cat suddenly becomes much less active, stops eating, seems painful or shows a significant behaviour change, speak with your veterinarian rather than assuming it is winter boredom.
A simple winter-day routine
- Morning: a brief wand-toy game, followed by breakfast.
- Afternoon: a secure window lookout, a cardboard hideout or an easy food puzzle.
- Evening: another short play session and a quiet place to rest.
- Every few days: rotate one or two toys or move a scratching surface to refresh the environment.
The best indoor activity is one your cat actually enjoys. Start small, keep play safe, and adjust the routine to your cat's age, health and preferences.
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Further reading
- Ontario SPCA: What is interactive play for cats?
- Ontario SPCA: How to engage your indoor cat
- Cornell Feline Health Center: Safe toys and gifts
This article offers general enrichment ideas, not individual veterinary advice.