This leopard-like kitty will definitely steal your attention and make you fall in love with her. If you already have one roaming around your house or you’re thinking of adopting her, there’s probably one thing you’re worried about. How do you keep your Bengal cat entertained and provide her with the best life possible?
You’re aware that your pet depends on you and you want to make sure that you improve the quality of her life as much as you can. But sometimes, this is easier said than done since you don’t know what changes to make.
As a cross between an Asian leopard and a domestic cat, your new Bengal pet seems like a real challenge. Once upon a time, she used to chase after the prey and now you have to entertain her in your humble adobe. Will you be able to do that? Can you provide her with a happy life? Here are all the tips you need when you’re worried about your cat’s quality of life.
1. Spend some quality time with your cat
Bengal cats aren’t your typical lap pets that are going to cuddle with you all day long. However, they will ask for your attention which means that you’ll have to play with them and make sure you’re doing something fun.
As soon as you get home, be ready to keep your Bengal cat entertained. Your Bengal kitty is going to appear at the door meowing for your attention. From that point on, she’ll let you know what she wants to do. Sit down for a second to get some rest and she’ll jump into your lap, trying to tell you it’s time to play.
So, be ready to do as she wants because that way, you’re providing her with the entertainment she needs. This will also allow you to strengthen the bond between the two of you which is a great way to make your kitty happy.
2. Provide her with mentally stimulating games
Intelligent cats need to play mentally stimulating games that are going to keep their brain in good shape. I’m not sure if you’re aware of it, but your Bengal cat is highly intelligent and she’ll need something fun and motivating to keep her entertained.
Puzzle toys are one of the best things you can buy for your Bengal kitty. They’re going to keep her interested as she’s trying to solve them and find her way to a treat. You can get her a couple of different versions and see which one she likes the best. That way, you’ll know what sparks her joy the most and you’ll be able to get her a similar toy next time she needs it.
Seeing your Bengal cat entertained and happy is going to be your biggest reward. At the same time, you’ll love the fact that you’ve provided her with something good for her and that will additionally improve her skills.
3. Make sure she has all she needs to stay in good shape
Your Bengal cat is one active pet and you’ll notice that from the moment you get her. She loves climbing vertical spaces and exploring her surroundings from the very top of the furniture. She also loves running and jumping around the way her ancestors used to do it.
So, a good way to keep your Bengal cat entertained is to provide her with some cat shelves and a cat tree that she can use to climb up and down. This will allow her to stay active but at the same time, it will ensure she lets go of all of that accumulated energy.
You can also get her a couple of prey-like toys that she can chase around the house. This will sharpen her hunting instincts and ensure she stays in great shape.
4. Find a way to let her play with water
Bengal cats love water. Even though felines are usually afraid of it, this leopard-like kitty is going to enjoy every little game that includes water. So, a great way to keep your Bengal cat entertained is to find some kind of water activity she can enjoy.
The easiest way to do that is to get her a water fountain. The moving liquid is going to keep her busy for a while, and she’ll enjoy touching the water and seeing how it moves.
You can also get her some kind of tub she can play in. Fill it with water and even add some toys inside of it so she can chase them around the tub. Everything she touches will eventually get wet but at least you’ll have one happy pet, living her best life.
5. Train your Bengal cat
Another great thing that you can do for your cat is to teach her some tricks. From simple ones such as sitting when you tell her or responding when you call her name to the more complex ones such as walking on a leash. Your Bengal is an intelligent feline and she’ll respond well to different tricks.
However, you have to keep in mind that she has to be in a good mood in order to learn something. Also, your lessons shouldn’t last long as she can get frustrated.
So, grab a clicker, get some of her favorite treats, and arm yourself with patience. Take things easy and don’t rush the process. Your Bengal cat is a great learner but she doesn’t like being pressured into something. If you realize that she’s getting tired, stop the learning process and continue with it some other day.
6. Take your kitty for a walk
If you successfully teach your cat to walk on a leash, you can easily include some walking around the neighborhood into your daily activities. I’m sure your feline is going to love it and you’ll be safe since she won’t be able to run away from you once she spots a bird in her close proximity.
This is a great way to keep your Bengal entertained. At the same time, it will help you get more active and breathe in some fresh air.
You can do it every day after work or you can make it a weekend practice. No matter what, she’s going to enjoy it and you’ll love seeing her happy.
7. Get her a cat sibling
All of the mentioned tips will keep your Bengal cat entertained but they’re only possible if you’re spending your time with her. If you don’t work from home or if you’re absent most of the day for any of the reasons, your cat will get lonely. Eventually, she can even develop separation anxiety.
In that case, a good way to keep her happy is to get her a fur buddy who’s going to play with her. The two of them will keep each other entertained and they will become the best pals ever.
This is a great option for all of the busy cat parents out there who want to share a home with a kitty but don’t have enough time to be there for their cats all the time. Some other breeds may tolerate the fact that you’re absent a lot but your Bengal is not one of them.
8. Introduce Interactive Toys for Endless Fun
Interactive toys are a fantastic way to keep your Bengal cat entertained. Feather wands and laser pointers can provide endless fun and exercise. Introducing different textures and movements can stimulate her hunting instincts, keeping her engaged.
Consider toys that mimic prey behavior to peak her interest. Keep play sessions short but frequent to maintain her enthusiasm.
Rotating toys regularly can help prevent boredom. Always supervise her play to ensure safety and maximize fun. These toys are not just entertaining, but they also promote physical and mental health, essential for a Bengal cat.
9. Create a Cat-friendly Climbing Paradise
With their love for climbing, Bengal cats thrive in an environment filled with vertical spaces. Set up cat trees with various levels and secure shelves to create an adventure zone for her to enjoy.
Incorporate scratching posts to cater to her need to scratch and stretch. Consider adding tunnels and bridges for extra exploration opportunities.
Ensure the setup is sturdy and safe. Climbing not only satisfies her innate instincts but also provides needed exercise. A well-designed climbing area can keep your Bengal entertained for hours, enhancing her physical and emotional well-being.
10. Offer Puzzle Feeders to Challenge Her Mind
Keep your Bengal’s brain sharp with puzzle feeders, which provide both a mental workout and a tasty treat. Opt for feeders that vary in difficulty to continuously challenge her.
Introduce the puzzle feeder gradually, allowing her to explore and understand the mechanics. This interactive eating experience not only stimulates her brain but also helps slow down fast eaters, promoting better digestion.
A puzzle feeder keeps mealtime exciting and beneficial, turning a simple activity into a cognitive challenge that your Bengal will love.
11. Set Up Window Perches for Bird Watching
Bengal cats are natural observers, and setting up a window perch can provide endless entertainment. Choose a sunny spot where she can comfortably lounge and watch the world outside.
Bird watching can stimulate her hunting instincts and keep her mentally engaged. Secure the perch properly to ensure it can support her weight.
Adding soft cushions can enhance comfort, making it her favorite spot. Watching the flurry of activity outside keeps her entertained and connected to the world, providing a relaxing yet stimulating experience.
12. Engage Her in Hide-and-Seek Games
Hide-and-seek is a delightful game that Bengal cats enjoy. It taps into their natural curiosity and hunting instincts. Use favorite toys or treats to encourage her to engage in the game.
Hide behind furniture or doors and call her name, rewarding her when she finds you. This interactive play fosters bonding and provides physical activity.
Vary the hiding spots to keep the game challenging and exciting. Hide-and-seek not only entertains but also strengthens the relationship you share with your Bengal.
13. Rotate Toys to Keep Things Fresh and Exciting
A great way to stimulate your Bengal is by rotating her toys. Only display a few at a time, hiding the rest for future play sessions to keep her on her paws.
This prevents boredom and renews interest in familiar toys. Observe her preferences to tailor the rotation to her liking.
Regularly cleaning and inspecting toys for wear and tear ensures safety and longevity. Variety in her toy selection keeps playtime fresh and exciting, promoting both her physical and mental health.
14. Host Playdates with Other Active Cats
Letting your Bengal interact with other playful cats can provide valuable exercise and socialization. Be sure to introduce cats with matching temperaments for the best experience.
Introduce them gradually in a neutral space to prevent territorial behavior. Supervision is key to ensuring safe and positive interactions.
These playdates offer a great opportunity for physical activity and socialization. Facilitating regular interactions with other cats can lead to a happier and more well-adjusted Bengal.
15. Provide Scratching Posts to Satisfy Her Instincts
Scratching posts are essential for a Bengal cat’s happiness. They provide an outlet for her natural scratching instincts, keeping her claws healthy and strong. Choose posts that are sturdy and tall to allow full stretches.
Place them in areas she frequents for easy access. Encourage use by sprinkling catnip or offering treats nearby.
Regularly check for wear and replace as needed. Scratching posts not only protect your furniture but also contribute to her physical health and well-being. They’re an indispensable part of any Bengal cat home.