4 Ways to Cheer Up a Depressed Cat

Before you envy your house cat's lounging lifestyle, consider that constant napping could be a sign of depression. As many as 40% of felines fall into funks out of sheer boredom, says Nicholas Dodman, director of the Tufts University animal behavior clinic. Why? Cats are safer indoors—away from cars and dogs—but the soft life can be downright dull. Signs of depression include overeating, lax grooming and sleeping at daybreak, when they should be up and hunting. Want to help your feline get out of their funk? Try one of these four ways to cheer up your kitty:

1. Give Kitty Your Attention on a Daily Basis

Play with your cat every day, even if he doesn't seem interested at first. "It's a misconception that cats are antisocial," says Dodman. "Some need just as much attention as dogs."

2. Purchase Toys that Your Cat Will Enjoy

Engage predatory impulses with interactive toys, like feathers on a string or laser mice toys.

3. Keep Kitty Active

Provide climbing towers and scratching poles to keep your cat from climbing the walls (or curtains).

4. Find a Friend for Kitty

Get your cat a pet to watch, like a gerbil, or put a bird feeder outside the window. Or, for the kitty who has everything, try a cat video. Pet AVision offers the adventures of Larry Lizard, Freddy Fish and Betty Bird.

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