Fun and Enrichment Ideas to Keep Your Cat happy and healthy over the summer season.
When we think of summer bucket lists, our minds usually go to sun-soaked holidays, beach days, and BBQs. But what about your cat? While they may not be sunbathing in Marbella or sipping mocktails in the garden, there’s still plenty they can enjoy this season with a little help from you.
Cats are curious, playful, and intelligent creatures that thrive on stimulation. With the longer, warmer days, summer is the perfect time to switch things up and create special moments just for them. Whether your cat prefers indoor lounges or is a garden explorer, here’s how to help them enjoy their best summer yet.
1. Create a Sunbathing Spot
Cats naturally seek out warmth, and nothing delights them more than lounging in a sunbeam. Set up a comfy spot by a sunny window or in a secure outdoor area like a balcony or garden. You can use a soft blanket, a dedicated cat hammock, or even a window perch so they can bask in the sun with a full view of the world outside.
Make sure to keep the area safe and shaded as needed. Too much direct sunlight can overheat them, so offer a nearby cool area with airflow and water. A rotating fan can be a great addition to keep things breezy, and some cats even cool down in front of it.
2. DIY Cat Ice Lollies and Tuna Biscuit treats
Help your cat cool down on hot days with some home made cat ice lollies Try blending a little tuna in spring water, with water and freezing it in small silicone molds or ice cube trays. You can also add a few of their favourite cat biscuits or a pinch of catnip for an extra sensory kick.
Other flavour options include chicken broth (make sure it’s xylitol- and onion-free), plain mashed sardines, or even goat’s milk. Serve the lollies in a shallow dish or on a lick mat for a longer-lasting experience or some tuna biscuit treats if your cat prefers dry food.
3. Outdoor Adventures
If your cat is harness trained or has access to a secure garden or catio, now’s the time to make the most of it. Nature offers an endless variety of smells, sounds, and textures that stimulate your cat’s brain and body.
Introduce supervised outdoor sessions early in the day or later in the evening when it’s cooler. Add new features to your outdoor space like tall climbing posts, logs for scratching, or cat-safe plants such as catnip, cat thyme, or valerian.
For indoor cats, you might consider short leash walks in a quiet area. It might take some training and patience, but some cats love the adventure once they’re used to it.
4. Bring the Outdoors In
Not all cats enjoy the great outdoors, and that’s perfectly okay. There are plenty of ways to bring the summer indoors. Start by setting up new window views - rotate perches to different parts of the house or hang bird feeders outside windows to give your cat something to watch.
Introduce natural elements inside your home like potted cat grass or safe flowers such as marigolds and sunflowers. You can even bring in sticks or leaves (after checking for bugs and pesticides) for them to sniff and paw at. Play a calming YouTube video of birds, fish, or flowing water can be really calming.
5. Try a New Toy or Puzzle Feeder
New toys or enrichment puzzles are great for promoting healthy development and play . Try a feather wand, treat-dispensing ball, or interactive toy with lights and sounds. For budget friendly options recycle cardboard boxes into hideouts or tunnels. Rotate toys every few days to keep them exciting, and make playtime part of your daily bonding time together. Puzzle feeders are also a fantastic way to feed your cat while engaging their mind. They mimic hunting behaviour and keep mealtimes interesting which is especially good for indoor cats.
6. Lazy Days Together
While summer can be about fun and games, it’s also a time to slow down. Take advantage of lazy afternoons by cuddling up for a nap or a gentle brushing session. Sit together on the patio or in a sunny room and just be present. Cats are comforted by your calm, quiet presence.
This downtime is also a good opportunity to check their health - grooming them lets you spot any fleas, ticks, or signs of overheating. If your cat’s feeling brave, you can also introduce a cool, damp cloth to gently wipe their fur and help lower their body temperature.
7. Update Their Microchip and ID
Summer often brings open doors, garden parties, and travel, which increases the risk of your cat wandering off. Make sure their microchip details are up to date and that their collar has a secure, legible ID tag.
Final Thoughts
Summer is a time for joy, relaxation, and new experiences - not just for us, but for our pets too. Creating a summer bucket list for your cat might sound a little extra, but it’s really about making small changes that improve their quality of life.
From sunbathing spots and frozen treats to sensory play and quiet cuddles, the season offers endless opportunities to bond, play, and show your cat just how much you adore them.
So, what’s going on your cat’s summer bucket list this year?
I treated my cat to a Pounczy! She loves her daily play with this toy. I have to recharge it out of sight or she’ll pull it off the usb charger!
Cheap Amazin lookalikes all have bad reviews! The the real McCoy is excellent although it’s on it third tail ( I know make them using a French knitting technique ( wooden cotton reel and four nails in the top, around the hole. I use to make these as a child, never though some 60 years later I’d be making them for my cat!