Puzzle Feeders for Cats

Environmental enrichment

Many pet cats are kept indoors for a variety of reasons in conditions that are, perhaps, the least natural to them. Indoor housing has been associated with health issues, such as chronic lower urinary tract signs, and development of problem behaviors. Environmental enrichment may mitigate the effects of these problems and one approach is to take advantage of cats’ natural instinct to work for their food.

Food puzzles typically consist of any object that can hold food and be manipulated to release food when the animal interacts with it. Food puzzles may be mobile (rolled or pushed) or stationary, and they can be used to provide either wet or dry food.

The active pursuit of food is instinctive for cats. A puzzle feeder is a great way to appeal to your cat's desire for physical and mental stimulation during feeding.

Here are some links with ideas for Do-It-Yourself puzzle feeders as well as those you can purchase:

• Gizmodo
• Purina One
• Amazon - Northmate
• Amazon - Catit
• Amazon - Slow Feed

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