Interactive play session with your cat can be very beneficial. While playtime with dogs is a social activity, playtime with cats is more of a simulated hunting experience. In the wild, cats are ambush predators that spend most of their time hunting for food. Without these normal experiences, cats can develop behavior problems. Try to play twice daily. Morning and evening are usually the best times and before mealtimes adds a lot. Short 5 to 10 minute sessions are best.
Tips for play include:
- Alternate speed of movement
- Move toy away from cat
- Move toy behind or under something
- Appeal to the senses- scented toys, noisy toys, textured toys
- Let them ‘kill’ the toy-it’s natural!
- Gradual wind down the play time moving toy more slowly to simulate death
- Rotate toys so they don’t get bored
Understanding and promoting play with cats ensures their happiness, overall health and well-being. Play nurtures the hum-animal bond and allows cats to express their normal behaviors in a safe environment. Even older cast will benefit from play.