Bond with your cat through play

Playing with a cat is very different than playing with a dog, but just as important.  Like it is for all pets, play in some form or another is vital to your cat’s health.

Play is good for your cat’s physical health because it improves reflexes and stamina. It’s good for mental health because it enriches your cat and helps lessen anxiety and destructive behaviours.  Finally, play is good because it reinforces the bond between you and your pet.

So, what are some great ways to play with your cat? Consider these ideas.

• First, find out what kind of play your cat likes. Cats naturally engage in several short play sessions a day instead of one long one. Maybe your cat likes to fetch or maybe she likes pouncing; some cats prefer to chase teasers. Once you know what stimulates your cat you can choose toys that will give her the most enjoyment.
• Before you buy toys, think a bit about the age of your cat. If you have a senior cat your choices will be very different if you have a kitten.
• Now it’s time to find some toys. There are so many options, and the choices are nearly endless but the main categories of cat toys are cat trees and scratchers, tunnels, hideouts, wands and teasers and puzzles. Some toys are interactive (like wands) while some are more solitary like tunnels and scratchers. Here’s a look at the options available at Blue Barn. Either way your cat should have a good selection to choose from. And if the current selection of toys has become a little boring, remember that cats love boxes and bags. Sometimes a simple household item will provide hours of fun!
• Cats love rituals, so if you can, try to make your playtimes at the same time of the day. An ideal time to play is just before feeding time. Play will increase your cat’s appetite and she’ll eventually learn that dinner time is next.