6 Ways to Keep Your Pet Entertained While You’re at Work

Admin Team
Dog playing with a puzzle feeder at home while owner is at work.

After the Christmas and New Year break, many pets have grown used to having their humans home more often. Now that routines are shifting again and workdays are back in full swing, some pets may struggle with boredom, restlessness, or mild separation stress.


The good news is that a few simple changes can make a big difference. Keeping your pet mentally and physically stimulated while you’re away helps reduce anxiety, prevent unwanted behaviours and support overall wellbeing.

Here are our top tips to keep your pet happy and entertained during the workday.



Puzzle Feeders and Treat Toys

Keeping your pet’s brain busy is just as important as physical exercise.

Puzzle feeders, slow feeders, and treat dispensing toys encourage natural foraging behaviours and problem solving. These activities help relieve boredom, slow down fast eaters and provide mental stimulation while you are out.


Try rotating different puzzle toys throughout the week to keep things interesting and rewarding.

 

Window Watching Entertainment

Sometimes the simplest enrichment comes from the outside world.


Setting up a comfy perch or bed near a window gives pets a front row seat to birds, people, cars and neighbourhood activity. This is especially enriching for cats, but many dogs also enjoy watching the world go by.


Make sure the area is safe, shaded and comfortable for longer viewing sessions.

 

Rotate Toys to Keep Them Fresh

If all toys are available all the time, they quickly lose their novelty.


Pack some toys away and rotate them every few days. When an old toy reappears, it feels brand new again. This keeps your pet engaged without needing to constantly buy new items.


Include a mix of soft toys, chew toys, and interactive options to suit your pet’s preferences.

 

Use Background Noise for Comfort

A quiet house can feel unsettling for some pets, especially after weeks of company.


Leaving the TV or radio on at a low volume can help mask outside noises and make the home feel less empty. Some pets find gentle background sound calming, and it may help them settle more easily while alone.


Choose calm programming or music rather than loud or sudden noises.

 

Prioritise Morning Exercise

A tired pet is often a relaxed pet.


A walk, play session, or short training routine before work helps burn off excess energy and supports better rest during the day. Even 15 to 30 minutes of focused activity can make a noticeable difference.


Mental exercise such as training or scent games can be just as effective as physical activity.

 

Routine and Comfort Matter

Pets thrive on predictability.


Keeping a consistent morning routine, familiar feeding times and comfortable resting areas helps your pet feel secure. Cosy beds, favourite blankets and access to familiar spaces can make alone time feel safe and stress free.


If your pet struggles with routine changes, gradual adjustments can help ease the transition back to workdays.

 

Signs Your Pet May Be Bored or Stressed

Some pets show subtle signs when they are not coping well with time alone, including:

• Destructive behaviour
• Excessive vocalising
• Changes in appetite
• Restlessness or pacing
• Over excitement when you return home


If these behaviours persist, it may be time to review enrichment, exercise levels, or seek advice from your vet.


We’re Here to Help

At Yass Valley Veterinary, we understand that modern life can be busy. Supporting your pet’s mental health is just as important as their physical care.


If you are concerned about boredom, anxiety, or behaviour changes while you’re at work, our team is happy to offer personalised advice and enrichment recommendations.



Busy humans and happy pets can absolutely go hand in hand with the right routine and support.




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