We all seem to think of cats as easy pets that do not require a lot of attention.
Well guess what folks? If you think that you are way off. Housing a cat in your home and ignoring it is like locking it up in a prison.
Boredom is a terrible thing. Playtime is just as important for our feline friends as it is for our canine companions.
Cats, like dogs, can suffer from boredom.
Dogs and cats are companion animals that need attention.
Engaging your cat in stimulating play and holding its attention may take some ingenious thinking. Creativity is the key.
Playtime is important because it simulates natural behaviours such as hunting and stalking. It helps to develop coordination as well as balance.
Socialization skills are also learned through play, be it with humans or other pets. It's also a great way to release energy.
A happy cat that is stimulated through play is more than likely not to be destructive. In most cases, a destructive cat is an ignored, bored cat.
Feathers provide great fun. There is a great toy made of feathers that looks like a fishing pole.
You can make some inexpensive toys with feathers, a glue gun and a bit of imagination.
Mazes are fun too.
Be creative. You can make them from sturdy cardboard. Making a big box with some holes to crawl through is another idea.
Cats are hunters, so use your imagination to set up a game where the cat gets an opportunity to hunt.
You can do this by creating or purchasing some moveable toys that make noises.
Otherwise, a simple, small, closed cardboard box with a ping pong ball rustling around in it could provide the cat with lots of excitement
Catnip toys on an elastic cord hung from a door can keep a cat's attention for a long time. Cats get bored easily so change the toys frequently.
High shelves or cat trees with perches are delightful. Try a laser pointer or a flashlight for some real fun.
Toys don't have to be expensive for a cat to have fun.
The most inexpensive yet most appreciated toy is a brown grocery bag folded down from the top so the cat can get inside.
The second favourite is something as unceremonious as a wadded up piece of paper which will keep kitties amused for hours.
A preference for toys is very individual according to each cat's likes and dislikes.
As any cat owner knows, it is nearly impossible to guess what toy is going to make your kitty sit up and take notice.
However, when choosing toys that will provide stimulating play for your cat, and keep him engaged, you must also consider the safety factor.
Be on the alert for any toy that may be a choking hazard. Stay away from toys with small parts, or toys that have pieces that may become dislodged during a playful romp.
Also, make sure they are not made of a toxic substance. All of these can cause severe injury to your curious pet.
An aquarium with fish swimming around will keep a cat fascinated.
Even something as simple as goldfish or betas will also do the trick. Make sure you keep the fish protected.
There are cat-specific videos available, which, I have been told by several feline friends, are pretty darn exciting and fun to watch. I didn't dare ask for whom.
So, get off the couch and have some quality fun with your cat.
Be creative and you will see what a delightful companion you have.
Email me at tracks@jokat.ca and let's talk animals.
