Cats are the enigmas of the domestic animal kingdom. One day they’re rubbing up against your legs and purring; the next day they’re the reincarnation of Dracula himself, drawing blood and making things go ‘bump’ in the night. But there’s a way to get some consistency from your cat’s behaviour and strengthen your human-cat bond: learn how to play with your cat in their way.
What are the benefits of playing with your cat?
Playtime for cats has some great benefits. Playtime:
- keeps your cat’s reflexes sharp
- provides mental stimulation
- is a wonderful form of exercise – especially for indoor cats
- can build a tight bond between cat and human
- keeps your cat engaged so she doesn’t need to find mischief elsewhere
What happens if you don’t play with your cat? Playtime is an essential outlet that feeds your cat’s need for mental stimulation. Cats are born hunters; their instincts are wired to chase, pounce, bite, swipe and feast – the same physical activity they exhibit when they play. If they don’t get to engage in these activities, they can become bored, frustrated, depressed and just… not themselves.
How long should playtime with your cat be?
Unlike dogs, cats don’t have the desire or the stamina to engage in games and playtime all day long. They need their beauty sleep and time to plan global domination. Two or three 15- to 20-minute-long play sessions per day should do the trick. You may even notice how fun and relaxing it is for you too! Depending on your cat’s energy levels and general sentiment, these play sessions should take place when she’s usually most active: early morning and early evening. But since all cats are different and impossible to predict, it’s best to gauge your cat’s playfulness first and see if she’s up for some games. When you’ve found a routine that works for both of you, stick with it.
How do you get your cat to play with you?
Some cats just don’t seem to want to engage in playtime. However, your secret weapon is to trigger your cat’s instincts. No cat – no matter how emotionally removed – can resist the hunt; the chase; the need to obliterate and destroy a small creature. Your furmidable huntress will not be able to resist the pull of an alluring bunch of feathers on a string, a rolling ball or a mobile mouse. Catnip is your ally too, so use it generously.
With this in mind, let the games begin!
1. Teach your cat to play fetch
No, we’re not kidding. Cats love to chase, so with a bit of reinforcement like treats and petting, they will learn that the faster they bring the toy back to you, the faster they’ll get to chase it again. Whether you throw a glitter ball with a jingle bell or a catnip-stuffed soft toy, watch as your cat delights in the thrill of the chase, obliterates the object of her chase with a few bunny kicks, then returns it to you to repeat the exercise again and again.
When you first start out, you may need to retrieve the ball or toy from your cat before she learns that she can simply bring it back to you for continued fun.
2. What’s in the cat activity box?
This is possibly the best use of a shoe box you’ll ever come across… aside from something your cat loves to sit in and look important.
- Assemble your cat’s favourite toys, some catnip and some treats, and a shoebox with a lid.
- Cut a number of different shapes into the sides of the shoebox – big enough for your cat’s toys, treats and paws to fit through.
- Place the toys and treats in the shoebox and put the lid on. Tape the lid shut so that the toys and treats can only be retrieved through the holes.
- Put the box in front of your cat. This should be enough to trigger her curiosity. We hope.
If your cat needs some encouragement to find out what’s in the box, place a feather toy on the inside of one of the cut-out holes, poking out enough to let her investigate it. She should take it from there…
3. The humble paper bag
Why do cats like paper bags so much? Cats have an insatiable curiosity that will make them explore the narrowest of openings and the darkest nooks and crannies. To fulfil this urge, all you need is a brown paper bag. Place it on its side with the opening facing your cat. If your cat feigns indifference, try to lure her inside by placing a toy or treat deep inside the bag. Once she’s begun exploring, make scratching noises on the outside of the bag, and playfully poke and prod the bag to engage her. Kittens are especially keen on a game with the invisible enemy!
4. Feather toys are a cat’s favourite
Why do cats like feather toys so much? After all, they simply consist of a stick, a piece of string and a little posy of feathers. This seemingly simple toy mimics the cat’s greatest weakness: the actual flight of a bird, triggering her instincts and giving her no choice but to chase and play. Her bird-catching instincts are too strong and you’ll soon have her jumping, reaching, catching and working all of her physical and mental muscles as you play. And besides – it’s super fun to watch your cat keyed in and motivated to play if her default mode is ‘Indifferent Queen of the World’.
5. Play hide-and-seek with your cat
This game needs no introduction and is very engaging to build a bond with a new kitten. Crouch down behind the couch or a wall and spy on your cat. Wait for her to make eye contact with you, then ‘disappear’ behind the furniture or around the corner. Her curiosity will be triggered and she will just have to come and hunt you. Play this game enough and she will always come-a-lookin’ for you. This will be her way of letting you know it’s playtime!
Can cats play on their own?
Playing fun games with your cat is good for the cat and good for you, but sometimes your cat can also engage in brain gymnastics on her own and feel just as mentally and physically fulfilled. This is useful if you are otherwise occupied. Puzzle toys for cats are a great way to keep your cat occupied and food-motivated, as she problem-solves in order to get to the hidden treats. Remember to always have fresh water available to keep your cat hydrated during playtime.
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