Senior Feline KONG Enrichment Activities

With insights from Sarah Zimmer, dog behaviour consultant & dog trainer

Supporting Mental Wellness in Ageing Cats

As cats grow older, their physical abilities may slow down, but their need for mental stimulation remains just as important. Keeping senior cats mentally active helps support cognitive health, reduce stress, and improve overall wellbeing as they age.

While you may notice changes in your cat’s hearing or eyesight over time, one sense tends to remain strong well into their senior years; their sense of smell. This makes scent-based enrichment one of the most effective ways to keep older cats engaged and happy.

Why Scent-Based Enrichment Matters for Senior Cats

A cat’s nose plays a huge role in how they experience the world. As vision and hearing decline, smell becomes an even more important tool for exploration and enrichment.

Using:

• Smelly treats

• Wet food or pâté

• Canned tuna (in moderation)

can encourage your cat to use their nose, keeping their brain active without placing strain on ageing joints.

Activities That Support Your Cat’s Mental Health

Hide-and-Seek Treat Games

One of the simplest and most effective enrichment activities is hiding treats and encouraging your cat to search for them.

Try:

• Placing treats in different rooms

• Hiding them under furniture or along skirting boards

• Keeping locations easy to access to avoid frustration

This taps into your cat’s natural foraging instincts while providing gentle mental stimulation.

Lick Mats for Calm, Focused Enrichment

Lick mats are an excellent option for senior cats, especially those who prefer calmer activities.

You can:

• Smear a small amount of your cat’s favourite treat or wet food

• Offer it during quiet times of the day

• Use it as a calming activity

If your cat isn’t immediately interested, gently warming the food can enhance the smell and make it more appealing — a particularly helpful trick for older cats.

Using Laser Toys Safely with Senior Cats

Laser toys can still be a fun and engaging option for senior cats, as long as they’re used thoughtfully.

Key tips:

• Always end the game with a physical reward, such as a toy or treat they can “catch”

• This prevents frustration and supports emotional satisfaction

• Be mindful of joint health — avoid encouraging jumping on or off furniture

Gentle, ground-level play is usually best for ageing cats.

Creating a Safe and Comfortable Environment

Senior cats benefit greatly from having safe spaces where they can retreat and relax.

Consider:

• Providing quiet hiding spots

• Offering elevated resting areas (such as shelves or cat trees)

• Ensuring easy access without requiring jumping

Cats naturally feel safer when they can observe their surroundings from above, so elevated spaces can be especially comforting.

Recommended Toys for Senior Cats

Puzzle toys, such as Kitty KONG enrichment toys, are a great option for older cats. These toys:

• Encourage problem-solving

• Combine physical and mental stimulation

• Can be adjusted to suit your cat’s ability level

They allow cats to engage at their own pace without pressure.

Recognising Signs of Overstimulation

While enrichment is beneficial, it’s important to know when your cat has had enough.

A key sign of overstimulation is:

• Excessive self-grooming during or immediately after play

If you notice this, it’s a good cue to end the activity and allow your cat time to rest. Short, positive sessions are always better than pushing too far.

Supporting Your Senior Cat’s Quality of Life

Mental enrichment plays a vital role in helping senior cats feel secure, engaged, and content. By focusing on scent-based activities, gentle play, and safe environments, you can support your cat’s emotional and cognitive health well into their golden years.

A little enrichment goes a long way — and for senior cats, it can make every day more comfortable and fulfilling 🐱💙