Cats are often thought of as low-maintenance pets (at least compared to dogs, who are notorious for needing a hue amount of human attention and interaction) but cats still require mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. A cat that is bored and has no positive outlet for its energy is more likely to become destructive or otherwise engage in undesirable behaviour
Bengal cats are no exception.
In fact, Bengal cats (at least in my experience) are more demanding in terms of attention/entertainment than the average cat.
It can be a bit of a struggle to keep your Bengal cat entertained; particularly a younger Bengal (as cats age they tend to mellow out a bit and will typically be more content to sit around and not do much … although ‘your mileage may vary’ in this regard)
With that in mind, here are some effective ways to keep your Bengal entertained. All of these “tactics” I’ve personally used, and they have worked well for me.
Provide Scratching Posts & Other Bengal Cat Toys
Scratching is a natural instinct for cats, so providing them with sturdy scratching posts will help keep their claws healthy and prevent them from damaging your furniture. Additionally, offering a variety of toys, such as laser pointers, feather wands, and balls, will provide mental and physical stimulation for your cat to play with.
On this website I’ve previously reviewed a number of top toys for Bengal cats, such as scratching posts, laser toys and other types of entertaining products for your cat.
If you’ve got any suggestions for good Bengal cat toys to keep your pet entertained, then feel free to drop a comment in the discussion section at the bottom of this article (you can do so anonymously).
Create A Stimulating Environment
Cats are curious animals and will enjoy exploring their surroundings. Consider setting up a cat tree or shelves for your Bengal cat to climb on, or installing a window perch so they can watch the world outside.
Rotating their toys and changing up their environment occasionally will also keep things interesting for your cat.
Rather than buying expensive toys and items, it’s probably better to buy a few cheaper ones and rotate through them (at least if your Bengal cat is anything like mine). Cats can have a tendency to get bored of toys rather quickly.
Spend Time Playing With Your Cat – Or Other Quality Time
Many cats enjoy interacting with their human companions, so make time to play with your cat on a regular basis. Use toys to engage them in play, and consider trying out puzzle toys that require your cat to think and problem-solve to get a treat.
Although we tend to think of cats as being relatively solitary creatures, most will value human company and attention, and your Bengal cat will enjoy and value the time you spend with him/her.
You don’t need to “actively” play together all the time either – just spending a bit of time together on the couch or bed is a good way to help keep your cat entertained and content.
Quality time is valuable to cats as well!
Provide Plenty Of Stimulation For Their Senses
Cats have keen senses of smell and hearing, so providing them with toys and treats that engage these senses can be very stimulating for them. For example, you could try using treats that have strong smells, or toys that make crinkly or rustling noises.
You might wish to look at something like a catnip toy for your Bengal cat, which can be very appealing as an outlet for their energy.
Appealing to your Bengal’s senses is always a good move if you want to keep your cat entertained.
Help Your Bengal Get Enough Physical Exercise
In addition to mental stimulation, it’s important for your cat to get regular physical exercise to maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity. Encourage your cat to run, jump, and play by using toys and interactive play sessions. Even if your Bengal cat is an indoors cat (and – as established here – there is nothing wrong with having an indoors cat/apartment-dwelling Bengal) it’s important to provide outlets and opportunities for exercise. You might even want to consider taking your Bengal for a walk.
Overall, keeping your cat entertained requires a combination of environmental enrichment, interactive play, and providing them with toys and activities that stimulate their senses and encourage exercise. With a little effort, you can help keep your feline friend happy and healthy.
You don’t need to spend your whole life trying to entertain your Bengal and keep him/her occupied, but spending a bit of time every day on the steps above will definitely help!
What are YOUR tips and tactics to keep a Bengal entertained? Feel free to leave a comment below – it would be great to hear from you.
