How to calm a high-energy kitten

Posted by PetDirect on 12th Jul 2022

Watching someone else’s kitten climb the curtains, leap off the top of door frames, and run circuits around the floor is pretty entertaining. But if it’s your home suffering from tiny claws or your sleep being disturbed, it’s less entertaining. If your kitten positively fizzes with energy morning, noon and night, here are some ways to help them become a calmer family member.

4 ways to calm an energetic kitten

Unlike puppies, kittens don’t need lots of training but there are still ways you can help them channel their energy into more productive (read: playful) pursuits.

1. Play with them (a lot)

Give your kitten plenty to do by having frequent play sessions with them. This will burn off their energy and also provide some great bonding opportunities for you both. Try playing with them in a way that mirrors their natural hunting instincts. It should be fun and challenging for them. A fishing pole/wand toy is ideal for this, or you can drag some string or rope along the floor, under the sofa and in cardboard boxes for them to chase after and pounce on. Read more on types of toys for your kitten.

After about 15 minutes, aim to slow down the play session and ultimately let your kitten catch the toy. As a reward, offer up a tasty treat. Their natural response to this should be eat, groom, sleep – giving you a bit of a break from their energetic antics! Try a play session before bed to tire them out ahead of a long night’s sleep.

2. Give them some height

Kittens and cats naturally seek out high positions, because it gives them a good viewing spot and makes them feel safe and secure. Plus, cat trees/towers encourage jumping, leaping and climbing – all great ways to channel their energy. Place a cat tree or wall-mounted hammock near a window or well-used family area and go for trees that are stable and have wide shelves and a hiding place. Hide treats in their cat tree, in puzzle toys or cardboard boxes hidden around your home to keep them entertained for hours.

3. Make mealtimes fun

Mealtimes are a good opportunity for energy-burning. Rather than using food bowls, opt for puzzle or slow feeders which give your kitten a brain workout as they try to get their food out. It’ll take them longer than just wolfing down their food, so it’s an ideal way to entertain them too.

4. Consider another kitten

It can be hard being a one-person kitten-entertaining-machine. If you can, you could consider bringing a new kitten into your home. Two kittens with the same energy levels can become close pals and entertain each other. Even though you might think they’re well-matched temperament-wise, it’s good to take introductions slowly and give them time to get used to each other.

Hopefully this guide helps your kitten safely and happily wear a collar. If you need any further help or have a question we haven’t answered, contact our friendly Pet Direct Customer Care team on 0800 200 240 or email support@petdirect.co.nz.