Indoor Play Ideas for Pets on Cold or Rainy Days
Rainy and cold days can be tough for both pets and their owners. When outdoor adventures aren’t an option, it’s important to keep your furry friends physically active and mentally stimulated indoors. Boredom in pets can lead to destructive behaviour or restlessness, but with the right activities and tools, you can transform those gloomy days into fun, enriching experiences. Here are eight creative indoor play ideas, along with tips and products to help you make the most of your time inside!
Challenge Their Minds with Puzzle Toys
Did you know that mental stimulation can be as exhausting for pets as physical exercise? Puzzle toys and treat dispensers are fantastic tools to keep your pet engaged and mentally sharp. They work by hiding treats or kibble inside, encouraging your pet to figure out how to access their tasty reward.
How to Use: Start with a simple puzzle for beginners and gradually introduce more complex toys as your pet learns. These activities can also help slow down fast eaters!
Recommended Products:
- Interactive Puzzle Feeders: Perfect for both cats and dogs, these encourage problem-solving.
- Treat-Dispensing Toys: A fun way to combine playtime with snacking.
KONG Cat Treat Dispensing Ball £6.09 and KONG Gyro £12.29
Play Hide-and-Seek for Extra Fun
Hide-and-seek isn’t just for kids—it’s a game your pets will love too! This activity stimulates their natural hunting instincts while encouraging them to use their nose or sharp senses to locate hidden treasures.
How to Play:
- Choose a small, enclosed area to start.
- Hide treats, toys, or even yourself behind furniture or under blankets.
- Call your pet and cheer them on as they search!
Tips:
For cats, using a catnip-infused toy can make the game irresistible, and as your pet becomes more skilled at finding hidden treasures, you can gradually make the hiding spots more challenging to keep them engaged.
Yeowww Stinkies Stars 3" 100% Organic Catnip Cat Toys £5.59 and Yeowww 6" Cotton Peeled Banana Filled With 100% Organic American Catnip £11.09
Tug-of-War: A Classic Energy Burner
If your dog has energy to spare, tug-of-war is a simple yet effective way to help them burn it off indoors. This classic game strengthens their jaw muscles and provides a great bonding experience for both of you.
Safety Tips:
- Use a sturdy rope toy designed for tug games.
- Make sure the toy is long enough to keep your hands safe from accidental bites.
- Always supervise to ensure safe play.
Our Favourites:
- Heavy-Duty Rope Toys for strong chewers.
- Plush Tug Toys for smaller or gentler dogs.
KONG Rope Bunji Assorted Small £10.79 and KONG Cozie Tuggz Assorted £10.49
Create a DIY Indoor Obstacle Course
Bring out your inner architect and design an obstacle course for your pet! This activity combines physical exercise with problem-solving, making it a great way to keep your pet entertained.
How to Set Up:
- Use household items like cushions, chairs, or boxes as obstacles.
- Include tunnels, jumps, and crawl spaces to create a fun, varied course.
- Lead your pet through the course using treats or a favourite toy as motivation.
Pro Tip: Use training cones or collapsible tunnels to make the course more exciting.
Product Suggestions:
- Pop-Up Pet Tunnels: Easy to set up and fold away.
- Agility Kits: Designed for indoor or outdoor use, these include hurdles and cones.
Engage Their Inner Hunter with Chase Games
Cats and dogs both love chasing things—it’s in their nature! Use laser pointers, feather wands, or robotic toys to provide a stimulating activity that mimics hunting.
For Cats: Feather wands and laser pointers will keep them darting around the room, burning off energy.
For Dogs: Try automated fetch machines or robotic toys that mimic small prey movements.
Shop These Favourites:
- Laser Pointers: Safe and effective for cats.
- Interactive Robotic Toys: Great for both cats and small dogs.
KONG Laser Pointer £4.25 and KONG Cat Wubba Caticorn £8.19
Indoor Fetch or Soft Ball Games
For energetic pets, indoor fetch is a lifesaver. Use lightweight, soft toys to prevent damage to walls or furniture. If you have a long hallway or an open space, it’s perfect for this activity.
Pro Tip: Soft, rubberised balls or plush toys work best indoors to minimise noise and avoid accidents.
Top Picks:
- Plush Fetch Toys: Gentle on furniture and safe for pets.
- Foam Balls: Lightweight and easy to throw indoors.
Chuckit! Super Slider Indoor Sliding Dog Toy & Interactive Self Fetch Toy £15.15 and Chuckit! Indoor Play Roller Dog Toy 11cm £10.89
Turn Training Sessions into a Game
Why not use the extra indoor time to teach your pet new tricks? Training is not only a fun bonding activity but also provides mental stimulation and reinforces good behaviour.
Training Ideas:
- Teach basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “paw.”
- Work on fun tricks like “spin” or “roll over.”
- Use a clicker and treats to make the experience fun and rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Just because you’re stuck indoors doesn’t mean your pet has to be bored! These activities not only keep your furry friends entertained but also help strengthen your bond. With the right toys and a little creativity, you can turn any cold or rainy day into a fun-filled adventure.