8 Fun Games to Play With Your Cat or Kitten (and One to Avoid)
Whether batting at mirrors, engaging in a tussle with dogs, or delighting in a bit of shelf-clearing, feline antics are entertaining and offer mental and physical advantages for your kitty.
According to Lisa Radosta, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist at Florida Veterinary Behavior Service and a Vet Scoop host, providing mental stimulation through play can contribute to your cat's overall well-being. She notes, "There's evidence that when cats have more mental stimulation, they're sick less. So, providing toys and an environment that encourages exploration is a great way to let your cat entertain himself. But it's also good to play with your cat. It makes you both happier and strengthens your bond."
If you're looking for fun and engaging activities to keep your feline companion entertained, here are eight enjoyable games to consider:
Fetch
Believe it or not, some cats love playing fetch! Throw a fuzzy mouse or a ball and see if your cat retrieves it. You can also toss treats or kibble for your kitty to chase—although don't expect them to return it. For added exercise, consider tossing treats up the steps of a cat tree.
Hide-and-Seek
If your cat responds when you call their name, try playing hide-and-seek. You hide, call their name, and reward them with a treat when they find you. It's a fun way to get your indoor cat moving more.
Cat Tricks
Similar to dogs, cats can learn tricks. Cat training can be a rewarding way to spend quality time together. However, remember that cats prefer a "let's see-if-kitty-feels-like-learning" approach. If your cat is willing, you can teach them tricks like sitting and high-fiving.
Obstacle Course
Just like dogs in agility training, cats are incredibly agile. Test your feline friend's skills by creating an obstacle course. Start with a tunnel and use treats to guide them through. Eventually, introduce a cue word like "tunnel" to prompt your cat's action.
Online Cat Games
Modern technology offers interactive games designed specifically for cats. These games feature fish swimming on the screen or mice darting around, keeping your kitty's interest piqued. These apps provide a dynamic and engaging experience for your cat.
Motorized Toys
Automated toys that move independently are a great way to entertain your cat when you cannot play. With the push of a button, interactive cat toys twirl feathers, roll balls, or flop around like fish, providing endless entertainment.
Puzzle Feeders
Puzzle feeders are food dispensers that challenge your cat to figure out how to release the kibble inside. They add an element of problem-solving to mealtime. To get your cat started, place a small amount of food and a few treats in the puzzle to make it enticing.
Enriched Environment
Enhancing your cat's environment can be as simple as introducing new items. For example, offer feathers or a cardboard box. Observe your cat's preferences and cater to their likes. Something as ordinary as a plastic bag can sometimes provide hours of entertainment.
Avoid Laser Pointers and Flashlights
While laser pointers and flashlights may seem like fun tools for feline play, they can inadvertently cause frustration. These devices stimulate the predatory sequence in cats, but without a tangible "catch" at the end, it can lead to pent-up energy, often resulting in biting and clawing. It's best to avoid these types of games.
Playing with your cat and providing engaging entertainment keeps them mentally stimulated and physically active and strengthens your bond. Moreover, it's an opportunity to appreciate your feline companion's agility and humor. Let the games begin!
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