How to Keep Indoor Cats Stimulated During the Summer Months

Summer is a time of energy and activity for many pets, but for indoor cats, the change in season can present both opportunities and challenges. While outdoor animals get to enjoy the sun and fresh air, indoor cats may find themselves lounging more than leaping — unless their environment is thoughtfully enriched. Mental and physical stimulation is just as important during the warmer months, especially as household routines change with holidays, guests, and longer days.

If you’re a pet parent looking to keep your indoor feline entertained and engaged this summer, here’s how to make the most of the season — and a few product recommendations to help along the way.

Create a Summer Viewing Spot by the Window

Cats are natural observers, and windows can offer endless entertainment during the summer. Birds, squirrels, insects, and even passing neighbours can turn a window into a feline’s personal movie screen. Consider setting up a cosy viewing area where your cat can comfortably perch and watch the world go by.

A mounted window hammock or a padded sill perch not only provides comfort but also satisfies your cat’s instinct to climb and observe from above. If you want to take things up a notch, hang a bird feeder or butterfly-attracting plant outside the window to encourage wildlife activity. Just make sure the window remains secure and closed if your cat is unsupervised.

Keep Them Cool with Summer-Ready Resting Spots

As temperatures climb, cats may become less active simply because they’re too warm. Indoor cats are masters at finding the coolest spot in the house, but you can help by creating specific chill zones that offer comfort and relief from the heat.

Cooling mats, often made with pressure-activated gel, are a great addition to your cat’s summer hangouts. Lightweight, elevated pet beds made from breathable mesh or bamboo also help with airflow, preventing them from overheating on thick rugs or upholstery. Placing these cool zones in quiet, shaded areas of your home gives your cat a peaceful retreat when the temperature rises.

Ice Paws Cooling Mat £9.99 and Snugglesafe Cool Pad £11.29

Rotate and Refresh Their Toys

One common mistake cat owners make is leaving the same toys out every day. While a favourite plush mouse may always get some attention, most cats lose interest in toys that never change. Just like humans, they crave novelty and surprise.

To keep playtime exciting, rotate their toy collection weekly. Introduce different textures, sounds, and movements. Interactive toys like feather wands and laser pointers mimic the thrill of hunting, while puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing balls offer mental challenges and rewards. Catnip or silvervine toys are excellent summer choices, offering sensory stimulation that’s especially enjoyable in the lazy afternoons.

Nerf Cat Plush Bird With Bell & Wand Yellow £9.69 and KONG Infused Cat Gyro £7.39

You can even create your own “toy chest” with a mix of textures — soft plush, crinkly foil, felt mice, and dangling strings — and switch out the options every few days to keep your cat guessing.

Bring a Bit of Nature Indoors

Just because your cat doesn’t roam the neighbourhood doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the joys of the natural world. You can safely bring the outdoors in with a few simple additions.

Growing fresh cat grass or catnip in small pots is a fun and enriching way to add greenery to your cat’s life. These plants are safe, easy to grow on a windowsill, and provide stimulation both through scent and taste. Another increasingly popular option is a catio — an enclosed outdoor patio or balcony extension that lets cats experience fresh air, sunshine, and natural scents without the dangers of the outside world. If a catio isn’t an option, consider a leash and harness combo for short, supervised trips to the yard or patio. Always use a well-fitted, escape-proof harness and start slowly to build your cat’s comfort.

KONG Naturals Catnip £6.29 and Johnson's Veterinary Catnip Spray 150ml £6.99

Make Mealtime a Mental Workout

Food time is one of the best moments to stimulate your cat’s brain. Rather than simply filling a bowl, turn meals into a game. Puzzle feeders, food mazes, and treat balls require your cat to think, strategise, and stay active to earn their reward.

LickiMat Cat Playdate Turquoise Interactive Food Feeding Mat £3.99 and KONG Cat Treat Dispensing Ball £6.09

This taps into your cat’s natural hunting instincts and helps prevent boredom-related behaviours like overgrooming or meowing for attention. You can even hide small portions of kibble or treats in different areas of your home to create a mini scavenger hunt. This mimics the experience of foraging and keeps your cat moving throughout the day.

Maintain a Summer Routine

Summer often brings changes — later evenings, holidays, visiting friends or family. While you may enjoy the relaxed vibe, your cat might find the changes in routine unsettling. Cats are creatures of habit, and sudden changes in feeding, playtime, or sleep schedules can lead to stress or behavioural issues.

Try to keep certain daily rituals consistent. Feed your cat at the same time each day and schedule regular play sessions, ideally during cooler parts of the morning or evening. If you’re planning to be away, ensure a trusted pet sitter follows your cat’s routine as closely as possible, and consider leaving familiar toys, beds, and even worn clothing with your scent to ease any anxiety.

Final Thoughts

Summer can be just as enriching and fun for indoor cats as it is for their outdoor counterparts — with a little creativity and the right tools. From interactive toys to shaded retreats, each small change you make helps your cat stay active, curious, and content throughout the season.

At Direct4Pet, we believe that every pet deserves a stimulating, joyful life — indoors or out. Check out our curated Cat Collection to find toys, treats, and gear that will make this your cat’s best summer yet.