Food puzzles are a great idea for cats.
Cats don’t find eating out of a bowl very interesting. You can instead give your cat a feeder that mimics normal feline hunting.
Cats are naturally skilled at hunting and looking for food. A puzzle feeder, also known as a food toy or slow feeder, is a great way to give your cat what they want. Puzzles can also slow down cats’ eating habits and promote activity.
Techniques for Introduction
You can make or buy food toys, and they can be simple or complicated. Try a simpler puzzle first to ensure your cat has easy access to the food. Next, move on to more complex options. The first time you use a food puzzle, it is important to choose highly-delicious treats. Next, move on to your regular food. As with all toys, supervise your first attempt at a food puzzle. If you have more than one cat, ensure that each cat gets the food toys that are appropriate for their level of skill.
Rotate any food puzzles that you use. You can either use one for every meal or switch them out if your cat loses interest or finds it too difficult.
Dry Food
- Give the cats a handful of kibble to chase after and find.
- Fantastic feeders that are well made and offer different challenges. To gauge my cats’ interest in puzzle feeders, I use the Trixie 5-in-1. You can use the two ends to store canned food. These can be purchased on Amazon and Chewy.
- Indoor Hunting Feeder is great for hiding individual mice with kibble around the house. Also available at Amazon.
- Food Puzzles for Cats offers many creative and easy-to-make options. For more information, visit the website Food Puzzles for Cats.
Soft Food
- Spread the mixture onto plates and trays.
- Place in the smaller compartments of an Ice Cube Tray
- Cat Wet Feeder