How to play with a cat
Playing with your cat, although often overlooked by us as caregivers, should be an important part of your pet's daily routine. It is just as important as a proper diet and plays a key role in caring for their well-being.
Regular interaction through play not only satisfies the needs of the cat, but also helps it cope with stress and other negative emotions, making it simply happier. Neglecting this sphere of activity or an inappropriate approach to play can lead to negative consequences, such as aggression, depression, as well as damaged furniture and scratches on the hands.
And as a result… the destruction of favorite furniture or scratched hands of us and our guests.
“Playing with your cat is not only fun, but also a form of exercise for your cat. It helps strengthen the bond between owner and cat, while keeping the cat physically active and mentally healthy.”
So, how do you play with a cat? One key element is understanding their natural instincts. Cats are predators, so they enjoy playing games that mimic hunting the most.
Here are some simple suggestions on how to play with your cat:
- Use toys that move and sound like real prey – birds, mice, etc.
- Pull out a ribbon or string. Your cat will definitely enjoy chasing them.
- He'll also be interested in a battery-powered toy that moves in unpredictable ways.
- Hide treats or toys in different places around the house to enjoy treasure hunting.
Playing with your cat is more than just fun. It's a moment that helps build a strong bond between you and your beloved pet. Remember that every cat is different, so it's worth testing different types of toys and games to find the ones that best suit your favorite.
Key Aspects of Playing with Your Cat
Even though cats are domesticated animals, they still carry within them the wild instincts that come from their nature and genetic heritage. In their natural environment, a cat could hunt up to fourteen times a day. Although not every attempt to hunt would be successful, the number of attempts would be significant. However, in a home environment, where the living space of cats is limited to four walls, they rarely have the opportunity to hunt real prey, which may be an advantage for us, but not necessarily for the cat. Cats are therefore dependent on their caregivers, on their ability to recognize and satisfy their natural needs.
Through evolution, cats, unlike dogs, have retained the full range of hunting instincts. But what exactly is and what does “the full range of hunting instincts” in cats look like?
The Full Range of a Cat's Hunting Instincts
To satisfy its hunting instinct, a cat must go through a complete cycle of hunting behaviors, each of which is crucial to it. This cycle, called the hunting chain, includes the following stages: observation, stalking, pursuit, capture, killing, tearing up prey, and eating.
Play with your cat should mimic this chain to be rewarding and stimulating for them. For example, using a long fishing rod with feathers or another attractive object on the end can help engage your cat in a full range of hunting behaviors.
When playing with a cat, it is worth paying attention to the individual stages of the hunting chain of behaviors and considering whether all of them are present in your interaction. Is the game not limited to the monotonous swinging of the aforementioned fishing rod (unfortunately, this is most often the case), which makes it predictable and unattractive to the cat, not reminding it of the irregular and chaotic movements of potential prey.
If your cat seems bored or uninterested while playing, it may be a sign that the way they play needs to be modified to better reflect their natural hunting instincts.
Choosing toys for your cat
Choosing toys for your cat can be both an exciting task and an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of your furry friend’s unique personality. To make this process even more interesting and fruitful, there are a few additional aspects to consider.
Observation is the key
Spend some time observing your cat. Notice which activities seem to engage them the most. Does they prefer hunting, or do they prefer games that require dexterity and precision? You will notice that some cats are fascinated by movement, while others prefer games that involve using their senses, such as smell or hearing.
DIY – Do it yourself
Consider making your own toys. Many cats love simple items like string, paper balls, and cardboard boxes, which can provide hours of fun. Making DIY toys not only allows you to customize your toys to your cat’s preferences, but it can also be a great way to strengthen your bond.
Variability and novelty
Cats, like humans, can get bored. Regularly introducing new toys or changing existing ones can help keep your cat interested and active. You can rotate toys so that each one seems new after a while.
Technology in the service of fun
In the age of technology, there are also electronic and interactive toys that can offer cats new forms of entertainment. From toys that respond to movement to mobile apps designed for cats, the possibilities are almost endless. Tablets – these are recently very fashionable devices that support playing with cats.
Having fun together
Don't forget that playing with your cat is also a great way to spend time together. By choosing toys that allow for interaction, you will not only strengthen the bond with your cat, but you will also have an impact on its physical and emotional development.
Safety first
No matter what toy you choose, always keep your cat's safety in mind. Make sure the toys are made of safe, non-toxic materials and are appropriate for the size and age of your cat to avoid the risk of choking or other accidents.
By carefully selecting toys that are tailored to the unique preferences and needs of our cats, we will not only satisfy their natural instincts, but also enrich their daily lives, ensuring their physical and emotional health.
What cat toys should you buy?
There is a whole range of cat toys available on the market – mice, fishing rods, tunnels… oh, there are so many. However, not all of them will appeal to your cat. The situation is similar to that of children – if a toy was always a toy, then regardless of the choice, the child would always be delighted in the same way.
However, as we well know, this is not true – one child will be happy to see a police car, another to see a doll. That is why it is important that when buying a toy for your cat, you are guided primarily by its preferences, not your own.
Check out our suggestions for choosing toys for your cat – we described them in more detail in our other blog article what to buy for a cat to play with
Frequently asked questions
Why is playing with your cat so important?
Are you wondering why playing with your cat is so important? Well, it is one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to build a close bond with your pet. But that is not all. Playing with your cat is not only a way to spend time pleasantly, but also a way to take care of its physical and mental health.
Current research shows that regular, active play with your cat has a significant impact on their well-being. It stimulates their mind, provides valuable exercise, teaches them socialization, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Play allows your cat to spend a lot of time moving, which is especially important for indoor cats, which often lead a more sedentary lifestyle.
Honestly, playing with a cat is also great fun for the owners themselves. Watching the cat play, participating in it, as well as introducing new toys or creating your own, is pure pleasure, which allows you to break away from everyday stress for a while.
In conclusion, playing with your cat is more than just entertainment. It is a key element of a healthy and happy life for your cat. So, remember to regularly set aside time to play with your cat, thus taking care not only of their health and happiness, but also of your close bond.
What games are best for cats and which ones are best avoided?
The games that will most appeal to your cat will depend on their personality and preferences. Some cats love to hunt and will enjoy toys that mimic the natural behaviors of wild cats, such as moving mice or tracking birds. Other cats may prefer more sedate games, such as measuring with a ruler. But remember to always supervise play and ensure it is safe.
On the other hand, there are certain types of play that you should avoid. For example, you should not let your cat play with string or wire, as these can pose a choking or swallowing hazard for your cat. Similarly, avoid toys with sharp, small pieces that can easily rob your cat.
You will find more about optimal cat games in our next articles. It is also good to observe your cat and adapt toys and play techniques to its preferences and play style.
What games are best for cats and which ones are best avoided?
Playing with cats is not only a form of entertainment, but also an important part of taking care of their physical and emotional well-being. Properly selected activities support mental health, help maintain an optimal weight, develop dexterity and help build a bond between the cat and its caregiver. However, there are certain types of play that are more beneficial for cats and those that are better avoided due to potential risks.
Recommended games:
- Hunting games – Cats are natural hunters, so games that imitate this instinct are most rewarding for them. Using toys like feather fishing rods or laser pointers (being careful not to point the light directly into the cat’s eyes) that your cat can chase, jump after and “catch” stimulates their natural instincts and provides excellent exercise.
- Interactive and educational toys – Toys that require your cat to think and solve problems, such as puzzles with treats as rewards, stimulate your cat’s mind and help combat boredom.
Toys for independent play – Toys that cats can play with on their own, such as balls, mice, or other items that are easy to roll and chew, provide entertainment when your cat is home alone.
- Games to avoid:
Small, easy-to-swallow items – Avoid playing with small items that your cat could swallow. Items like rubber bands, pieces of foil, and small rubber toys can pose a serious choking hazard or cause a blockage in the digestive tract.
- Directly using hands or feet as “toys” – While this may seem like an innocent form of play, using hands or feet to encourage a cat to attack can lead to unwanted aggressive behavior. The cat may start biting and scratching in inappropriate situations, not knowing when it is acceptable to do so.
- Laser pointers without ending the game – Using lasers can be frustrating for your cat if the game does not end with a “hunt” for something physical that the cat can catch. It is recommended to end the game by giving your cat a physical toy or treat to satisfy their hunting instincts.
- Toys made from hazardous materials – Avoid toys made from toxic or flammable materials that may be harmful to your cat’s health.
Summary
The key to choosing the best games for your cat is to understand their individual needs and preferences. Games that encourage their natural hunting instincts and offer mental challenges are usually best for their health and happiness. At the same time, it’s important to avoid games that could pose health risks or encourage aggressive behavior.Regular, safe interaction and providing appropriate toys can greatly contribute to the well-being of your feline companion. Don't forget about good wet food providing energy for fun!
