Three reasons you should make your cat work for their food, according to a feline behaviorist

Are you having trouble with your cat’s behavior? Sometimes, it can seem as though cats simply do what they want. But, while cats can certainly be quite independent and enjoy doing their own thing, we can get to the point where our cats are showing behavioral issues that need to be addressed for the safety of everyone in the home.

So, what can you do? Well, a solution might just involve using some of the best cat food, and plenty of physical and mental enrichment thanks to one of the best cat puzzle feeders. That’s what certified cat behaviorist Saba Sayyed, known as A Cat Behaviorist on Instagram, says in a recent post.

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Our writer Megan tested this product with her cat, Nala and declared it the best puzzle feeder for cats. She reports that it has slowed down Nala’s pace, while also encouraging her to eat food that she'd previously gone off. To reveal the food, your cat has to spin the layers and use their foraging instincts to dig it out which is great for mental stimulation.

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First – what is cat enrichment? Well, it’s the practice of consciously giving animals ways to express their natural behaviors, as Sayyed recommends doing with our cats.

She explains, ”In the wild, cats work for their food, exhausting both physical and mental energy while hunting. This gives them a sense of ownership, confidence, and happiness. Indoor cats, on the other hand, often lack these natural activities, leading to obesity, stress, and anxiety.”

So, something she promotes is making indoor cats work for their food to allow them to tap into their natural instincts and prevent behavioral issues – giving three benefits. (And check out these nine reasons to use a cat puzzle feeder toy, too!)

1. Improves physical health: When your cat works for their food, they’re keeping physically active. This can help stave off conditions like obesity, heart disease, and kidney issues.

2. Reduces stress and anxiety: This physical activity can have a knock-on effect mentally, too. Physical activity helps calm a cat’s mind, and lowers stress and anxiety.

3. Boosts confidence and happiness: “Working for their food gives cats a sense of accomplishment,” explains Sayyed, “Making them feel more confident and happy.”

She continues, “Always engage your cat in play, puzzle feeders, or leash walking before feeding. Don’t just put food in front of them – make it an opportunity to enrich their body and mind!”

So, why not take some time out to allow your cats to showcase those impressive natural instincts when it comes to feeding? It could just make your life a little easier.

If you’d like some inspiration to get started, why not take a look at these seven fun cat enrichment ideas to stimulate your kitty’s mind and body? And check out these deals on the best cat puzzle feeders that we’ve put to the test and loved.