Food Fun
Cats are natural hunters. Simply providing food in a bowl can be unstimulating and may contribute to over-eating and obesity.
When we consider how feral or unowned cats eat, we see that they consume many small meals throughout the day and spend much of their time hunting for food (the mice don’t just line up to be eaten!).
Using feeding methods that mimic a cat’s natural hunting behaviours provides mental stimulation, encourages physical activity, and can help reduce the risk of certain health and behavioural problems.
What is a Food Toy / Food Game?
Food toys don’t need to be expensive—or even store-bought. They simply need to make the cat work a little (or a lot!) to get their food.
Almost anything can be used as a food toy: egg cartons, small food-safe containers, treat balls, lick mats, and more. Simple games can be just as effective—tossing individual kibbles for your cat to chase and eat, repeated several times, provides exercise and gives them the thrill of the hunt.
For shy or less active cats, instead of placing all the food in one spot, try hiding small piles of three to four kibbles in a variety of locations around your home. This encourages gentle exploration and allows cats to “hunt” at their own pace.
How to Begin
When introducing your cat to a new food toy or game, remember to start ridiculously easy!
If the food is too difficult to get, your cat will likely get frustrated and lose interest. Start with treats, rather than their regular food, to make the game more enticing. Gradually switch to their regular diet once they get the hang of it.
Keep in mind that if there’s always an unlimited supply of food in a bowl, your cat may not show much interest in the toys or games at first. Try removing the bowl for a few hours before offering a food toy or game to spark curiosity.
Here are some ways to start simple:
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Adjustable toys: Set them to their largest setting so the food comes out easily. As your cat gets better, gradually make it more challenging.
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Load up the toy: Fill it with plenty of food to make it easier for your cat to access. Slowly reduce the amount as they improve.
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Tossing food: Start by tossing food just a short distance. As your cat gets the hang of it, increase the distance and make them work a bit harder (e.g., tossing the food in boxes).
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Hiding food: Begin by placing food in easy-to-access spots, such as on the ground or areas your cat frequents. As they become more adept, hide food in higher places or new areas of the house.
Examples of Food Toys / Food Games
