How to Play with Your Cat: Fun Cat Activities

July 4th, 2023

Cats are naturally curious and playful creatures. They thrive on snuggles with their pet parents, along with mental and physical stimulation. Setting aside time to play with your cat helps strengthen your bond, builds trust, and reduces boredom. Here are suggestions for fun activities to keep your furry companion active, healthy, and happy.

Shop for Kitty Toys

There are many types of cat toys available for hours of cat fun. Some popular ones include balls, stretchy toys, wands, and teasers. Let your furry friend watch, plan, chase, and experience the satisfaction of a good catch. Keep toys of different sizes and textures on hand to stimulate your cat’s senses. Motorized toys are also a great way to entertain your kitty when you’re unavailable for play. Make sure any toys or activities are appropriate for cats for an enriching, safe experience.

Interact with Your Furry Friend

Nothing beats quality time with your cat. Things you can do include chasing your furry friend around your home, playing hide-and-seek, or simply petting them and talking to them in a soothing voice. Your playful kitty may nip or claw at you, so take this time as an opportunity to teach gentle play.

Encourage Natural Behaviors

It’s always a good idea to keep your feline companion engaged by encouraging natural behaviors. Most cats love to climb and scratch, so keep a climbing/scratching post – or two in high-traffic areas. Not only will your cat spend endless hours of fun, but you’ll also spare your furniture from falling victim to those claws.

Teach Your Cat Tricks

Like dogs, cats are intelligent creatures that can learn tricks. The only difference is that cats don’t appreciate a whole lot of bossing around. The key is to find the right time when your kitty is ready to learn and teach tricks like “sit” or “high-five.” It will be fun to show off your new cat skills!

Look Up Cat Apps on Your Tablet

Most pet parents don’t realize that there are phone or tablet apps specifically designed for cats. You’ll find ones that stimulate feline hide-and-seek prey instincts by featuring mice that run across a screen or fish that swim by. Kitties love these games, so don’t be surprised to see your furry friend swatting or pouncing.

Change Up Your Routine

Changing your routines a little goes a long way in keeping things new and exciting. Try exploring different locations, different activities, or even changing the rules of your games. Rotate your furry friend’s favorite toys regularly to keep up the interest levels.

How Often Should You Schedule Playtime?

The amount of cat playtime will depend on your furry companion’s individual needs. Some cats, especially older ones, are content with short play sessions once a day, while others need more playtime. A good rule of thumb is to play with your cat for at least 20-30 minutes each day.

Need More Tips?

If you’d like more tips on keeping your kitty active, healthy, and happy, contact your trusted team at All About Cats Veterinary Hospital in Kirkland, WA. We are pleased to offer ideas for play depending on your cat’s health, age, and activity level. If any health concerns interfere with your cat’s playtime, we are here to help. You can always count on us for compassionate cat care because, after all, we are all about cats!