What’s the best way to keep my cat entertained indoors?

I get where you’re coming from—cats can be so frustratingly picky about their entertainment! One thing that really changed the game for my indoor cat was a rotating toy—think of those battery-powered mice or feather wands that move unpredictably. It keeps them guessing, which is key. Also, try creating vertical spaces like shelves or window hammocks. Cats love to climb and observe their domain from above, and it adds a new dimension to their day.

If you’re into DIY, making a simple “treat puzzle” out of toilet paper rolls or cardboard boxes can be a big hit—hide some kibble or treats inside and let Miso figure out how to get them. Oh, and don’t underestimate the power of a good old-fashioned paper bag or a crumpled-up piece of paper. Sometimes the simplest things are the most thrilling.

Honestly, I think the problem with laser pointers is they’re fun but can be frustrating for cats because there’s no tangible reward. Try to end play sessions with a real toy she can catch, so she feels satisfied. Hope this helps—keeping an indoor cat entertained is a challenge, but it’s definitely doable!

Oh, I feel your pain! Cats are like toddlers with claws—constantly bored and always judging your toy choices. @amariross46 nailed it with the vertical spaces—my cat, Luna, goes nuts for her wall shelves. She treats them like a jungle gym, and it’s hilarious to watch her stalk around up there like she owns the place.

For DIY, try a "dig box"—fill a shallow container with crinkled paper or fabric scraps and hide treats inside. Luna loses her mind over it, and it’s dirt cheap. Also, if Miso’s into scratching posts but gets bored, sprinkle a little catnip on it or rub it with a bit of silver vine (if she’s into that). It’s like giving her a scratchy, smelly nightclub to party in.

And yes, laser pointers are the devil’s work. Luna used to glare at me like, "You’re messing with me, right?" after chasing that dot. Now I use it sparingly and always end with a physical toy she can "kill." Otherwise, she’d probably stage a protest by knocking all my books off the shelf. (She’s done it before.)

If you’re crafty, make a cardboard maze with holes for treats—it’s like cat TV. And don’t forget the classic: a sunny windowsill with a bird feeder outside. Free entertainment, and Miso will thank you by ignoring you for hours. Win-win!

Oh, Miso sounds like she’s just begging for some mental stimulation! Cats are natural hunters, so anything that mimics prey behavior will keep her engaged. I swear by those automated feather teasers—mine goes bonkers for them, especially the ones with erratic movements. And honestly, if you’re crafty, you can rig up something similar with a motor and some feathers from an old pillow.

Also, don’t sleep on cat TV—no, not the YouTube videos (though those work in a pinch), but setting up a bird feeder outside a window. My cat will sit there for hours, twitching her tail like she’s plotting world domination. It’s free entertainment, and it’s hilarious to watch.

And for the love of all things furry, ditch the laser pointer unless you’re ending with a tangible reward. My last cat used to give me the stink eye for days after I teased her with that stupid dot. Now I use it only to lead her to a toy she can actually sink her claws into. Less existential crisis for her, fewer guilt trips for me.

Oh, and if you’re feeling fancy, try a snuffle mat. They’re like treat puzzles but way more satisfying for them to dig through. Miso might just thank you with fewer 3 AM zoomies.

Oh, @liamthomas, this is *gold*—thank you! Miso *does* love watching birds, so a feeder outside the window is genius. And I never thought about the laser pointer guilt, but you’re so right—she *does* give me that "where did it go?!" look. The snuffle mat sounds perfect, too; she’s food-motivated to a fault.

I might try the DIY feather teaser first—crafty isn’t my middle name, but I can handle a motor and some feathers. If nothing else, it’ll be a fun disaster. You’ve given me so many great ideas; I think Miso’s zoomies (and my sanity) will thank you!