Cats may be known for their independence, but they also love interactive play with their favourite humans! Playing with your cat not only strengthens your bond but also keeps them physically and mentally stimulated, helping reduce stress, boredom, and behavioural issues. Here are some fun and enriching games to play with your feline friend.
The Classic “Chase the Feather” Game
Using a wand such as the Trouble n Trix Mouse Wand is a tried-and-true favourite among cats. The feather mimics prey-like movement, encouraging your cat’s natural hunting instincts. To make this game more engaging:
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Vary the speed and direction of the feather
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Let it hide behind furniture or dangle enticingly off edges
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Try looping it in the air or dragging it slowly across the floor
After a few rounds of chase, let your cat “catch” the feather occasionally to give them a sense of accomplishment.
Laser Pointer Adventures
Laser pointers are great for sparking your cat’s hunting drive, as the elusive dot keeps them on their toes! Move the laser pointer in unpredictable directions, up walls, or over furniture to encourage climbing and jumping. However, remember:
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Don’t shine the laser directly in your cat’s eyes
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End the session with a tangible toy, like a mouse or ball, to avoid frustration from “never catching” the laser
Hide-and-Seek
Cats love the thrill of hunting, and hide-and-seek taps right into that instinct! Use toys or even your own hands for them to “discover.”
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Hide a favourite toy under a blanket or behind furniture and let your cat pounce when they see it
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Try hiding yourself or popping out from behind furniture to surprise your cat in a playful way
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Use treats or kibble to keep them motivated; hide treats around the room for your cat to sniff out
Interactive Puzzle Games
Cats are curious and intelligent, and they love a good challenge. Interactive puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys keep them entertained and provide mental stimulation. Options like puzzle feeders, where they have to move pieces or pull out drawers for treats, or treat-dispensing balls that they can bat around until a treat falls out, are excellent choices. You can also get creative with DIY puzzle boxes by using an old box and cutting holes where they can bat a toy or kibble around.
For a fantastic ready-made option, consider the Nina Ottosson Buggin Out Puzzle and Play Treat Dispenser for Cats. This Level 2 interactive game features 8 treat compartments hidden by swiveling leaves or sliding ladybugs, encouraging your cat to solve the puzzle for their reward. It keeps your cat mentally stimulated and physically active while offering hours of engaging solo play, perfect for when you’re not around.
“Mouse” on a String
A mouse or small plush toy attached to a string is another simple but highly engaging game. The key is to simulate “prey” behavior:
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Let the mouse dart across the floor, hide behind obstacles, or dangle enticingly
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Switch up the movement to keep your cat engaged; sometimes moving quickly and sometimes slowing down
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Allow your cat to “catch” it occasionally for a satisfying end to the chase
Box Hideouts
Cats can’t resist the allure of a good cardboard box, making them a simple yet effective source of entertainment. To engage their natural curiosity, set up a few open boxes around the room, ideally in spots where your cat can sneak in and out with ease. Adding toys or treats inside the boxes can encourage exploration and keep them engaged for longer. If you want to take the fun a step further, transform the boxes into tunnels by connecting them to create a mini obstacle course. This not only provides mental stimulation but also encourages physical activity, giving your cat a playful way to stay entertained.
Fetch
Believe it or not, some cats enjoy a game of fetch just as much as dogs do! Experiment with lightweight toys like crinkle balls, plush mice, or even small wadded-up pieces of paper.
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Toss the toy a short distance and encourage your cat to chase it
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If they bring it back, reward them with praise or a treat
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Over time, they might get the hang of it and start bringing it back on their own
Agility Course Fun
Setting up a mini agility course can be a fun challenge for your cat. You can use tunnels, small hurdles, or even DIY obstacles to make it more engaging.
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Start with simple obstacles and reward them with treats or praise as they go
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Guide your cat through the course with treats, a wand toy, or a laser pointer
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Over time, your cat may start to navigate the course independently and have a blast!
Tug-of-War with Soft Toys
Cats enjoy a gentle tug-of-war session with a favourite soft toy or rope. Let your cat grab onto the toy and gently tug it back and forth.
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Use a plush toy or knotted sock, as softer materials are gentler on your cat’s teeth
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Allow them to “win” sometimes by letting go so they can enjoy the satisfaction of catching their “prey.”
Final Tips for Playing with Your Cat
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Keep Sessions Short and Fun: Cats often prefer shorter play sessions, so keep it to around 10-15 minutes at a time to avoid overstimulation
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Rotate Toys: To keep your cat interested, rotate toys every few days
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End on a High Note: Let your cat catch the toy or have a treat to end the game with a positive experience
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Observe Their Body Language: Cats communicate through body language. If they seem agitated or overstimulated, give them space
Regular playtime can help your cat stay physically fit, mentally engaged, and emotionally content. By incorporating a variety of these fun games, you’ll build a strong bond with your feline friend and make each day an adventure they look forward to!
