Environmental enrichment encourages animals to use their natural abilities and behaviors to interact with their environment. Some creatures like to stalk and chase their prey, while others prefer burrowing underground to hide. Here at the Zoo, we create activities that stimulate the senses and encourage this natural behavior.

Make your own puzzle box

Though your house cat may be 400 pounds smaller than our lions and tiger, domestic and big cats have similar needs. Both creatures have a natural instinct to hunt for their food, so creating enrichment activities that encourage cats’ curiosity and hunting skills are purr-fect for your feline friend. Here's how!

Materials Empty cardboard box (tissue or cereal box) Scissors Cat treats or toys Optional: nontoxic paint, markers, ribbons  Cat!

 

Steps Seal the box's ends. Get creative! Add some color with nontoxic paint, crayon or marker. Cut shapes into the top of box. Keep shapes big enough for a cat's paw, but small enough to make it challenging for your cat to get the treat! Drop a few treats or a favorite toy into the puzzle box. Bring on the beast!