Let’s be honest—cats are full of personality. If you’ve ever watched a cat zoom across the room for no reason or suddenly attack a piece of string like it’s alive, you’ve probably wondered—what’s going on in that furry head? Cats may act mysterious, but their favorite activities actually make a lot of sense once you know why they do them.
From batting at toys to hiding in cardboard boxes, cats have clear reasons for the things they enjoy. Most of it ties back to their natural instincts—hunting, climbing, exploring, and just plain relaxing.
In this guide, we’re breaking down the top 10 activities cats love and what makes each one so satisfying for them. Some will make you smile, others might surprise you, but all of them will help you understand your cat better.
1. Chasing and Pouncing
Cats love chasing moving objects—whether it’s a toy mouse, feather wand, or laser pointer. This goes back to their natural feline behaviors rooted in hunting.
Why do cats love this?
- Cats have a strong prey drive.
- Chasing and pouncing are essential cat play behaviors.
- It mimics stalking prey in the wild.
How to support this behavior
- Use feather toys, toy mice, or string toys to imitate prey.
- Let your cat “catch” the toy at the end to avoid frustration.
- Play in short, active bursts throughout the day.
2. Climbing and Perching
Climbing is one of the most loved indoor activities for cats. It satisfies their natural need to get up high, where they feel safe and in control.
Why do cats enjoy climbing?
- Cats are territorial animals who like to watch over their space.
- High perches reduce stress and give them a sense of control.
- Climbing is also great exercise.
Cat enrichment ideas
- Provide cat climbing trees or mounted wall shelves.
- Use tall cat furniture to create vertical playgrounds.
- Place perches near windows for extra entertainment.
3. Scratching
Cats scratch not to annoy you—but because they need to. It’s an instinct, not a bad habit.
Why do cats scratch?
- To shed dead outer claw layers.
- To mark territory using scent glands in their paws.
- To stretch and exercise.
Ways to meet this need
- Use scratching posts made of sisal, cardboard, or carpet.
- Place scratchers near favorite spots, especially after napping.
- Try both vertical and horizontal scratchers to see what your cat prefers.
4. Hiding and Exploring
Cats are natural explorers with a love for cozy hiding places. A simple cardboard box can bring more joy than an expensive toy.
Why do cats love boxes?
- Small spaces make cats feel safe and hidden.
- Boxes reduce stress and anxiety.
- They also help cats regulate body temperature.
DIY cat enrichment ideas
- Leave out a cardboard box or paper bag (with handles removed).
- Create a simple hideaway using a towel over a chair.
- Rotate hiding spots to keep things fresh.
5. Kneading
Kneading is a rhythmic motion where cats push their paws in and out on a soft surface. It’s often seen when they’re relaxed and happy.
Why do cats knead?
- It’s a habit from kittenhood when they kneaded their mother’s fur for milk.
- It signals comfort and safety.
- Kneading also leaves scent marks, claiming the area as theirs.
Other reasons for kneading
- Your cat feels bonded with you if they knead on you.
- Soft blankets and bedding are great outlets for this behavior.
6. Sunbathing: The Science Behind Why Cats Enjoy Sunbathing
Have you noticed your cat always finds the warmest, sunniest spot in the house? Sunbathing is one of their favorite ways to relax.
Why do cats enjoy sunbathing?
- Warmth helps cats stay comfortable, especially when they nap.
- Sunlight may help with joint health and mood.
- It’s part of their instinct to seek cozy, safe spots for rest.
Ideas for indoor cats
- Set up a window perch in a sunny spot.
- Let them nap in rooms with lots of light during the day.
7. Interactive Play
Interactive cat play is more than just fun—it helps keep your cat healthy and prevents behavior problems caused by boredom.
Best toys for cats
- Laser pointers (always let them “win” with a toy at the end).
- Wand toys that mimic birds or mice.
- Balls with bells or feathers.
Tips for interactive play
- Aim for 10–15 minutes twice a day.
- Avoid overstimulating your cat—watch for signs like twitching tails or sudden aggression.
- Keep a variety of toys and rotate them weekly.
8. Exploring New Smells and Toys
Cats explore their world mainly through scent. Giving them new things to smell and interact with stimulates their minds.
Cat enrichment tools
- Catnip toys (only about 70% of cats respond to catnip).
- Silvervine or valerian root as alternatives to catnip.
- Rotating toys and adding scents like rosemary or lavender (use sparingly).
Fun ideas
- DIY treat hunts using paper bags or puzzle feeders.
- Introduce different textures and sounds in toys.
9. Watching the World
Cats are observers. Giving them access to windows is one of the easiest and most engaging ways to keep them stimulated.
Why do cats love window watching?
- Birds, squirrels, and passing people give cats something new to observe.
- It satisfies their curiosity and keeps their minds busy.
- It offers low-stress stimulation.
Cat-approved window setups
- Window hammocks or perches.
- Bird feeders placed outside (at a safe distance).
- Safe, screen-protected windows for fresh air.
10. Solving Food Puzzles
In the wild, cats work for their food. Puzzle feeders help recreate this mentally stimulating activity at home.
Benefits of food puzzles
- Encourage problem-solving.
- Slow down fast eaters, improving digestion.
- Provide exercise and enrichment.
Popular puzzle feeders
- Rolling treat balls
- Food-dispensing towers
- DIY versions using egg cartons or paper towel rolls
Simple Joys, Happy Cats: Make Every Day Enriching
Each activity gives them something they naturally crave, like exercise, mental stimulation, or just a cozy place to snooze. And let’s be honest, watching a cat go full ninja on a feather toy or curl up in a sunny window never gets old.
Now that you know what makes your cat tick try mixing up their routine. Give them new toys, set up a window perch, or spend more time playing. It doesn’t take much to keep a cat entertained—you just need to know what they’re into.
Keep it fun. Keep it simple. And most of all, let your cat be a cat.