How to Keep Your Pet Entertained While You’re at Work
Leaving your pet home alone while you’re at work can be tough—not just for you, but for them too! Pets, especially dogs and cats, can experience boredom, anxiety, and even destructive behavior if they don’t have enough mental and physical stimulation. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to keep your furry friend entertained and happy while you’re away.
Here are some of the best strategies to ensure your pet stays engaged, comfortable, and stress-free during your work hours.
1. Provide Interactive Toys and Puzzles
Pets love toys that challenge their minds and encourage independent play. Interactive toys are a great way to keep them engaged when you’re not around.
For Dogs:
🐶 Treat-Dispensing Toys – Fill a Kong or similar toy with peanut butter, kibble, or frozen treats to keep your pup busy for hours.
🐶 Puzzle Feeders – These make mealtime more stimulating by requiring your dog to solve a puzzle before getting their food.
🐶 Snuffle Mats – A fun way to let dogs “hunt” for treats by sniffing them out of a textured mat.
For Cats:
🐱 Interactive Balls – Battery-operated balls that roll unpredictably to keep cats entertained.
🐱 Food Puzzle Toys – Toys that require your cat to “work” for their food, mimicking natural hunting behavior.
🐱 Catnip-Filled Mice – Small toys that mimic prey and keep your cat engaged.
💡 Tip: Rotate different toys each day to keep things fresh and exciting for your pet.
2. Set Up a Pet-Friendly Viewpoint
Pets love watching the world go by! Setting up a comfortable viewing area can provide hours of entertainment.
🌞 For Cats: Place a perch or cat tree near a window where they can watch birds, squirrels, and passing cars. Some pet parents even install window bird feeders to provide endless feline fun.
🚗 For Dogs: If possible, position a dog bed or blanket by a window with a safe, enclosed yard view. Some dogs love watching people walk by, while others may need a window film to reduce barking triggers.
💡 Tip: If your pet enjoys outdoor visuals, consider playing “Bird TV” or “Dog Relaxation” videos on YouTube.
3. Leave the TV or Radio On
Background noise can help pets feel less alone, reducing anxiety.
📺 Pet-Specific TV Channels: Some cable and streaming services offer dog- and cat-friendly content with calming visuals and sounds.
🎶 Soothing Music: Classical music or soft instrumental tunes can create a relaxing atmosphere.
🗣️ Talk Radio or Audiobooks: The sound of human voices can be comforting, especially for pets who miss their owners.
💡 Tip: Test different sounds to see what your pet responds to best—some enjoy upbeat tunes, while others prefer calm nature sounds.
4. Create a Rotating Play Schedule with Automated Toys
Technology can keep your pet entertained even when you’re not there!
🤖 Automatic Ball Launchers (for Dogs) – Devices like the iFetch can keep dogs engaged by throwing balls for them to chase.
🎭 Motion-Activated Cat Toys – Toys that randomly move, flutter, or spin keep cats entertained throughout the day.
🕰️ Timed Treat Dispensers – Some pet cameras come with treat dispensers you can activate remotely.
💡 Tip: Avoid overusing automated toys, as pets may lose interest if they are too predictable.
5. Establish a Pet Playdate or Hire a Pet Sitter
If your pet loves socializing, arrange for a friend, neighbor, or professional pet sitter to drop by during the day.
🐾 Dog Walkers: A midday walk provides exercise and mental stimulation.
🐾 Pet Playdates: If your dog enjoys other canine company, arrange for a playdate with a trusted friend’s dog.
🐾 Pet Sitter Check-Ins: Hiring a sitter to visit, play, and provide bathroom breaks can make a big difference.
💡 Tip: If you have a friendly pet, consider doggy daycare once or twice a week for extra socialization.
6. Use Scent and Food-Based Enrichment
Pets explore the world through their noses, and scent-based games can keep them engaged while you’re away.
🐶 For Dogs: Hide small treats around the house for them to sniff out. You can also leave behind an item with your scent (like a worn t-shirt) to comfort them.
🐱 For Cats: Sprinkle a bit of catnip on their bed or scratching post to create a calming effect. Some cats also enjoy silvervine or valerian root as alternatives to catnip.
💡 Tip: Be mindful of caloric intake when using treats for enrichment—low-calorie options like carrot sticks can be a good alternative.
7. Consider a Second Pet (If It’s the Right Fit)
If your schedule keeps you away for long hours, and your pet is highly social, a second furry friend may be a great idea.
🐕 Dogs: Some dogs thrive with a canine companion, but consider their temperament and personality before adopting a second dog.
🐈 Cats: While some cats prefer solitude, others love having a feline friend—especially if introduced properly.
💡 Tip: If you’re unsure whether your pet would enjoy a companion, foster a pet temporarily to test the waters.
Image by Gundula Vogel from Pixabay