Why all animals need enrichment

Every pet deserves more than just the basics of food, water, and shelter. The reason why all animals need enrichment is because they need stimulation, challenges, and opportunities to express who they are and to satisfy natural instincts. Enrichment is the foundation of a fulfilling, happy life for animals of every species, and helps build the bond with your pets through play. 

Enrichment is more than toys 

Enrichment for pets is often mistaken for simply offering a ball to chase or a chew toy to gnaw on. And while some pets may enjoy these, true enrichment goes far deeper; it’s about encouraging animals to use their natural instincts and abilities in ways that keep them mentally sharp and physically active. 

Why enrichment matters 

Foraging, burrowing, perching, and problem solving aren’t just “bonus” activities — they’re fundamental to a pet’s mental health.  Animals without enrichment can quickly experience boredom, which often leads to unwanted behaviours like chewing, scratching, or aggression. With enrichment, animals build confidence and reduce anxiety. 

From scratching posts for cats to dust baths for chickens, enrichment lets animals express their instincts safely and satisfyingly. These activities usually double as physical exercise, keeping pets agile and reducing the risk of obesity or other related health issues. And, interactive enrichment deepens the bond between people and their pets, turning everyday play into meaningful connection. 

Enrichment by species 

All animals may need enrichment, but they all need different types. Hamsters don’t perch, just as chickens don’t (typically) play fetch. Here’s a breakdown of ideas for enrichment based on your pet’s species. 

Chickens 

• Dust baths: Chickens instinctively clean themselves by rolling in dust or sand. Dust bathing is a social activity for chickens, and also keeps their feathers in good condition. 
• Perches: In nature, chickens love to hang out on low branches. Climbing, resting, and stretching their wings on chicken perches are excellent exercises for your flock, and satisfies their desire for higher vantage points. 
• Peck toys: Foraging is a flock’s favourite activity. Mimicking this natural behaviour, chicken peck toys keep your chickens’ scratch grains at an elevated level that they’ll have to reach for. 

Cats 

• Cat trees: Cats crave elevation, and cat trees give them a place to perch, scratch, stretch, and cat nap. Vertical space gives them territory they can claim for themselves, and a higher vantage point to help them feel more secure. 
• Cat scratching posts: Give your cats something to sink their claws into (other than your furniture). Cat scratching posts help relieve stress and stretch your feline’s muscles. 
• Interactive toys: Toys that interact with your cat ignites their hunting instincts. Choose animated toys, or those with flights or sounds to awaken your feline’s inner fierceness. 

Dogs

• Training sessions: Training your dog builds their confidence and their bond with you. Aim for 20 minutes a day working with your dog, especially if they’re young or an active breed. 
• Walks: Quality time with you is likely the ultimate form of enrichment to your dog, and walking is the epitome of excitement to most dogs. Switch up your route routinely to keep things fresh and exciting. 
• Puzzle feeders or snuffle mats: In between interaction with you, these mind-exercising elements can keep inquisitive dogs busy. Dogs are natural problem-solvers, and these toys stimulate their minds and noses. 

Rabbits & Guinea Pigs 

• Tunnels: Rabbits and guinea pigs both crave the comfort of burrows, which are mimicked by Zippi Rabbit and Guinea Pig Tunnels. Build an above ground burrow that satisfies your small pets’ needs to hide and explore. 
• Platforms: Add ramps and platforms to your bunnies’ and cavies’ run to add space and help them stretch their legs. The higher vantage point gives them a better look at the world around them, and the shade below is perfect for afternoon naps. 
• Treat holders: Playing with your food is encouraged for a rabbit or guinea pig. The Caddi Treat Holder will hold their favourites while encouraging motor and problem solving skills. 

Hamsters 

• Wheels: Aside from you, an exercise wheel is your hamster’s best friend. This element is essential for all hamsters to expel their energy. 
• Tubes: Hamster tubes are a fun way to watch your pet explore using their natural intuition. Watch them work their way through a design of your creation, carrying cheek pouches full of snacks along the way. 
• Burrowing material: A hamster habitat deep enough to create burrows is just what your pet needs to feel safe and comfortable. Use soft bedding that holds its shape for ultimate burrowing fun. 

DIY ideas 

There are some quick and inexpensive ways to entertain and enrich your pets. Think cardboard boxes for hiding places, disposable dig boxes, and mazes, or toilet tube rolls stuffed with hay for small pets. Homemade obstacle courses will delight your dog, and piles of leaves or hay with dried insects or scratch grains tossed in will send your flock into a frenzy. Get creative with your designs, just make sure to use pet-safe components. 

Signs your pet needs more enrichment 

How do you know if your pet is short on enrichment? There are signs — some subtle, and others more obvious. Common signs of understimulated animals include: 

• Pacing or restlessness 
• Excessive vocalization
• Destructive behaviors 
• Withdrawal or lethargy 

These signs aren’t just “bad behaviour”, they’re your pet’s way of telling you that they need more stimulation in their day. 

Omlet and your pets 

Our designs make enrichment effortless. From extendable Walk In Runs and Catios to the Freestyle Cat Tree, Chicken PoleTree, cats and chickens will have their every whim fulfilled. And for small pets, Zippi Tunnel Systems and Hamster Habitats bring big fun to little lives. No matter what type of pets are part of your family, our products turn every day into extraordinary — for you and your animal companions. 

 

This entry was posted in Pets

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