Four party games to enrich playtime!

To keep pets happy, well-adjusted and stimulated, it’s important to enrich their playtime with new and interesting ways to excite their senses, as well as giving them plenty of love and affection. Here’s our pick of quick and easy party games for your pets to enjoy. And don’t forget, part of the fun is getting involved too!

For Cats

Crazy Cat Crackers

Our feline friends are big fans of things that rustle, things they can bat around and things that smell awesome. That’s why these simple bonbons should drive them wild! All you have to do is place a cat treat (or a piece of cooked chicken) on a small piece of paper, roll it up, twist the ends, and place it somewhere for your cat to discover. It’s a lot of fun watching them flick the cracker around whilst trying to get at the goodies inside.

Paper Pinata for Puss

Using a paper bag (for sandwiches or similar) or baking paper, you can craft a paper pinata for puss to play with. Just pop some cat treats or biscuits in the bag, cut a hole in the bottom (just large enough for the treats to drop through), hang it in a safe area (from a cat scratching post or door handle), and stand back to watch the fun begin!

Note: As with anything involving string and cats, paws can get tangled, so supervision is essential.

For Dogs

Puppy Paddling Pools

Most dogs love water, and a cheap, hard plastic paddling pool can be great fun for your dog. Make sure your dog can get in and out of the pool easily, and that the water is just at paddling depth. Putting some of their favourite toys in the water, or food such as carrot slices or apple pieces, adds more fun and encourages them to play in the water.

Giant Iceblock

This one requires a little preparation, but the payoff is worth it! Place a small amount of food scraps in an empty ice cream container, fill with water and freeze (suitable foods include: cooked rice, meat, small amount of dog biscuits, carrot slices, a chicken neck, pigs ear etc). When fully frozen, remove the iceblock from the container and give to your dog.

As the ice melts, the yummy scraps will pop out for your dog to investigate and eat. This is especially good in summer to keep your dog cool and occupied for ages!