Recently, an avid reader reached out with some poignant advice.
To paraphrase, “you [i.e. we] write a lot about the benefits of playing with our cats. And we really appreciate it. But it would be great if you could also provide some guidance around how to play with cats, since this is where we struggle”.
Well, avid reader, today’s your lucky day. After receiving similar feedback from others, we decided to synthesize all we know about how to play with cats into ten “commandments”.
If you want a full system that goes beyond just play rules, this indoor cat boredom fix kit lays everything out step by step.
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With no further ado, here’s our best advice to help you and your kitty get the most out of playtime.
The Ten Cat Commandments (of Play)
Play = Prey
Once you understand this, and its implications, everything else becomes secondary. The ultimate goal of playtime is to simulate the experience of the hunt.
That’s because hunting is necessary for survival – a reality that’s been hardwired into the DNA of every cat. For indoor cats in particular, play is often the sole means for scratching this “evolutionary itch”.
Keeping this in mind while you play will help you make things more realistic and engaging, thus maximizing the benefits both for your cat, and your relationship with them.
Patience is a virtue
The second commandment will serve you well whether you’re just getting started or a seasoned playtime pro. Try not to get frustrated if your cat seems uninterested.
It could be the toy, your technique, or maybe they just aren’t feeling it today. Regardless, never yell at your cat and always try to make the experience as positive as you can.
Never scare your cat
Remember, cats may be skilled predators, but they are also simultaneously prey.
Because they naturally find themselves squarely in the middle of the food chain, cats must remain vigilant at all times, even in the midst of the hunt.
Be careful not to frighten them with any loud noises or sudden movements in their direction. Similarly, you should never approach or chase after them with a toy, especially not in an aggressive or threatening manner.
Cats will instinctually give chase, so it can be helpful to start by slowly moving the toy away from them, simulating how an injured bird or mouse might try to escape.
Be the bird (mouse, snake, whatever)
Since cats are instinctually driven to hunt in order to survive, making things “lifelike” will significantly increase their engagement and eagerness to play.
Using realistic toys and movements will help you tap into and harness the “raw cat” living inside of them.
Try to end playtime with a meal
Again, we are attempting to simulate the hunt. And what happens at the end of every successful attempt in the wild? You guessed it, dinnertime!
Feeding them immediately after playing helps our cats feel the confidence that come with being a badass predator. It also creates a positive association with play and of course, you as well.
Playtime can even signal your cat’s stomach to begin producing acid in anticipation of the catch, thus improving digestion. Why not take advantage of this, while rewarding them with the tasty gratification that only comes after a successful hunt (in real life).
Rotation, rotation, rotation
The unfortunate reality is that cats tend to get bored with most toys pretty quickly.
One way to mitigate this is to build up a stockpile of toys and swap them out every few sessions. Occasionally rubbing some fresh catnip on them is another way to extend the life of your cat’s toys.
Understand your cat’s hunting style
Every cat is unique. Experiment with a variety of “prey” (flying birds, slithering snakes, etc.) to discover what really gets your kitty going. Even seemingly minor details, like whether a toy has a bell or not, can make a huge difference to your sensitive huntress.
Consistency is key
To reap the maximum benefits from playing with your cat, try to establish a consistent, daily schedule. Cats thrive on routine. Playing with them at around the same time each day is another way you can help boost their self-confidence.
In fact, all of these principles are most effective when applied consistently. Here’s how to entertain an indoor cat using a complete routine.
Hands are not toys
Although this commandment is geared more towards playing with kittens, it applies to cats of any age. We won’t get into the details but suffice to say, it is best for everyone when we teach our cats early on that scratching or biting hands is never OK.
Laser pointers are for presentations, not cats
Not only are laser pointers the opposite of realistic, but they will also leave your cat completely unsatisfied. Since they can never actually “catch” the little red dot, cats are left feeling anxious and defeated. As a result, most of the potential benefits of playing are lost.
The same goes for anything that requires an iPad or an app. You’d think this would be painfully obvious but…common sense is not so common these days, it seems.
The Best Cat Toy Begins (and Ends) with You
At the end of the day, we could provide you with all of the best tips and advice on how to play with your cat.
But unless you are fully committed to making the time on a consistent basis, finding the best toy for your cat, and learning about their unique hunting style and preferences, you will probably get sub-optimal results.
Furthermore, it is worth mentioning that the best cat toy always starts and ends with you. Said differently, there is no fancy robot or automated doodad that can take your place.
To put it bluntly, if a cat toy requires batteries, it is not going to do the trick. That’s not to say that there isn’t a time and place for ‘solo play’ cat toys. They are certainly nice to have, particularly for when you have to be away from home.
But make no mistake, the benefits they provide your cat will be limited at best.
Conclusion
Playing with your cat is one of the best things you can do for their overall health and well-being. It is also probably the best way there is to build trust and strengthen your bond.
Considering the monumental impact play can have towards helping our cats thrive, it’s hard to believe that there are still some who are either too lazy or simply uninformed to make it a non-negotiable part of their daily routine.
Fortunately, you are here and you know better. On behalf of your cat(s), we would like to say thank you.
If your cat still seems restless, the issue is usually bigger than play alone. Here’s how to fix indoor cat boredom more effectively.
Are there any specific aspects of play that you struggle with? Any advice or tips you feel that we missed? Drop us a comment below, we’d love to hear from you!