If your cat lives indoors full-time, you’re not alone — and neither are they. More and more pet parents are keeping their cats safely inside, which is great for longevity and health… but it also means we need to work a little harder to keep those curious minds and agile bodies active.
These cat enrichment ideas for indoor cats are all apartment-friendly, tested by our in-house cattos Rain & Skye, and designed to boost wellbeing without taking up too much space.
🏗️ DIY Cat Enrichment Ideas for Indoor Cats
📦 1. Cardboard Box Cities
Before you throw away that delivery box, think again. Cut some holes, stack a few boxes, and you’ve got a DIY play zone. Add a crinkle ball or two and watch the fun unfold.
Rain loves using his as a hideout when he’s feeling mysterious.
🛍️ 2. Paper Bags (With Handles Removed)
A rustling paper bag is basically a theme park for cats. Always remove the handles for safety, toss in a toy or sprinkle of catnip for extra appeal.
🧠 3. Treat Puzzles & Foraging Games
Keep that clever brain busy with food puzzles. You can make your own using egg cartons, toilet rolls, or silicone muffin trays.
Or check out our ready-made options designed for The Sophisticat — the thinker of the cat world.
🎣 4. Toys Tailored to Their Play Personality
Not all cats play the same. Some chase, some pounce, some climb walls like gravity doesn’t apply.
At Every Tail, we match toys to your cat’s unique style.
Meet the personalities:
• The Acrobat – for jumpers and climbers
• The Shikar – for stealthy hunters
• The Sophisticat – for clever problem-solvers
• The Adventurer – for curious explorers
🌿 5. Create a Window Watching Spot
Set up a perch where your cat can safely observe the world. Birds, trees, neighbours — it’s all TV to them. Bonus points for a comfy cushion and a sunbeam.
🪴 6. Bring Nature Indoors
Cat-safe plants like cat grass or catnip give your indoor cat new textures and smells to explore.
🔁 7. Rotate Toys Weekly
Cats lose interest fast. Keep a small stash of toys aside and rotate them weekly. It keeps things feeling fresh and exciting without buying new ones constantly.
❤️ Enrichment = A Happier Indoor Cat
Whether you’re in a flat, studio, or house, these cat enrichment ideas for indoor cats help your companion stay active, stimulated, and content.
Need a shortcut?
We’ve hand-picked toys for every cat personality.