We all want our pets to be happy, healthy, and well-behaved—but did you know that boredom can lead to a variety of unwanted behaviours and even impact your pet’s overall wellbeing? 

Just like humans, animals need mental and physical stimulation to thrive. When pets don’t get enough enrichment, they can start finding their own (often not-so-helpful) ways to pass the time. Below are five common signs that your pet may be bored—and what you can do to help. 

Note: While boredom is a common cause of certain behaviours, it’s important to remember that some of these signs—like changes in sleep, vocalization, or restlessness—could also indicate pain or an underlying medical issue. If you’re ever unsure, a visit to your vet is a great place to start.

Destructive Chewing or Scratching

The behaviour: Your dog is chewing shoes. Your cat is clawing furniture (even though there’s a scratching post nearby). These destructive actions are often a sign that your pet is craving stimulation. 

How to help: 

• Rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh. 
• Offer puzzle feeders or food-dispensing toys to engage their brain while they eat. 
• Provide species-appropriate outlets like safe chew toys for dogs and multiple scratching options in prime locations for cats.

Excessive Vocalization

The behaviour: Your pet is barking, whining, meowing, or chirping more than usual—especially when you’re not giving them attention. 

How to help: 

• Set aside daily interactive play sessions at regular times to burn off energy. 
• Use calm music or enrichment videos designed for pets when you’re out. 
• Try training exercises that encourage focus and reward-based learning. 

Pacing or Restlessness

The behaviour: Your dog keeps circling the house. Your cat is racing around for no clear reason. This could be a sign of pent-up energy or mental frustration. 

How to help: 

• Increase daily walks or offer indoor games like hide-and-seek. 
• Use treat scavenger hunts or DIY scent games to mimic natural foraging behaviours. 
• Consider training classes that offer both physical and mental stimulation. 

Attention-Seeking Behaviours

The behaviour: Jumping on counters, pawing at you constantly, stealing objects—sound familiar? Pets will often act out to get any kind of response, even negative ones. 

How to help: 

• Reinforce positive behaviours with treats, praise, or play. 
• Avoid scolding or punishment—redirect instead with a cue or a toy. 
• Teach new tricks or cues to redirect their energy in a rewarding way. 

Sleeping Too Much (Even for a Pet)

The behaviour: While cats and dogs do sleep a lot, excessive or lethargic behaviour—especially during times they’d usually be active—can signal under-stimulation or even low mood. 

How to help: 

• Introduce window perches or bird-watching stations for cats. 
• Offer new challenges, like basic agility or snuffle mats. 
• Schedule regular enrichment breaks during the day, even if just for 5–10 minutes. 

Enrichment Prevents Problem Behaviours

The good news? Many boredom-based behaviours can be prevented—or reversed—with enrichment. Providing regular mental and physical stimulation supports a pet’s emotional wellbeing and strengthens the bond between you. 

At Toronto Humane Society, we incorporate daily enrichment into every animal’s routine—because we know a busy mind is a happy mind. 

Want to learn more about enrichment ideas or training tips?

Check out our cat and bog behaviour resources in our Pet Library, or speak with one of our certified trainers today.