Owning a pet is one of the most rewarding experiences, but it’s also essential to be prepared for the responsibilities that come with it. One of those responsibilities is keeping your pet entertained, especially if you live in an apartment or small space.
If you’re like most pet owners, you most likely spend a lot of time thinking about how to keep your furry friend entertained. After all, a bored pet is often a destructive pet. And who wants to come home to a demolished couch or a shredded pair of shoes? But there’s no need to worry. With a bit of creativity, it’s easy to keep your pet entertained at home.
The advantages of owning a pet
Pets bring so much joy and companionship into our lives. They make great cuddle buddies, walking partners, and loyal friends. But did you know that pets also have some excellent health benefits? In this blog post, we’re going to explore some of the top advantages of owning a pet.
Reduced Stress Levels
One of the most common benefits of owning a pet is that it can help reduce our stress levels. Studies have shown that simply stroking a furry animal can help to lower our heart rate and blood pressure. Playing with a pet can also release endorphins, which have mood-boosting properties. So if you’re feeling stressed out or down in the dumps, spending some time with your pet could be just what the doctor ordered.
Improved cardiovascular health
Another great advantage of owning a pet is that it can lead to improved cardiovascular health. Walking your dog several times a day is a great way to exercise, and even playing with your cat can help increase your heart rate. People who own pets typically have lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels than those who don’t. They’re also less likely to develop obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure.
Lowered risk of allergies and asthma in children
If you have young children, one of the best reasons to get a pet is that it could help to decrease their risk of developing allergies or asthma. A study by James E. Gern found that children exposed to dogs and cats in their first year of life were significantly less likely to develop allergies later on in childhood. Another study found that babies raised in homes with dogs had a significantly lower risk of developing asthma before the age of six.
Keeping your pet entertained
The are several ways to keep your pet entertained at home. In general, it’s all about understanding your pet’s needs and finding activities that match those needs accordingly. So here are a few tips to get you started:
Give Them Plenty of Toys
Pets love toys, and the more options they have, the better. If your pet tends to get bored quickly, rotate their toys every week or two so they always have something new to play with. Just be sure to get rid of any toys starting to fall apart so your pet doesn’t accidentally ingest any small pieces. Also, match the products you buy to your pet’s interests. For example, if you own a cat, get them a catnip-filled toy or a scratching post. Look for cat products and accessories online and see how each can help keep your cat entertained.
Play Games Together
One of the best ways to bond with your pet is to play games together. And there are games you can play, depending on your pet’s interests. If your dog loves to fetch, try playing catch in the backyard. If your cat enjoys chasing things, get them a cat toy they can bat around. You can even create an obstacle course for your pet to navigate. Whatever games you decide to play, make sure to have fun and be silly with your pet. They’ll love spending time with you, and you’ll get a workout in too.
Make Meals More Fun
Eating can be boring for pets, especially if they eat the same food daily. So mix things up at mealtime by adding some wet food or chopped-up treats to their dry food. You can also try feeding them from a puzzle toy or slow-feeder bowl to make mealtime more interactive (and help prevent digestive issues).
Take Them on Regular Walks
A nice walk around the neighborhood is always good for you and your pet. But instead of just strolling aimlessly, try making it a game by hiding treats along the way for your pet to find (be mindful of other animals in the area). Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for a doggy hiking or agility class!
Final thoughts
Pets need stimulation and exercise just like we do, so it’s important to find ways to keep them entertained at home. Luckily, there are plenty of options available, from toys and games to interactive food bowls and walks with a purpose. So get creative and have fun! Your pet will thank you for it.