Stimulating Your Cat's Hunting Instincts:
- Cat ancestors had to hunt insects, birds, mice, and other small animals to survive, which required them to be ready to pounce at a moment's notice.
- While indoor cats don't need to hunt for food, they still have the natural instinct to stalk and pounce.
Benefits of Toys:
- Providing toys for your cat to stalk and pounce on makes them happy, helps keep them healthy, and ensures they stay active.
- Cats enjoy toys that mimic the movement and sounds of their natural prey, such as toys that squeak, chirp, jitter, swing, or vibrate.
Types of Toys:
- Fur
- Feather
- Balls
- Cat Kong
- Box
Interactive Toys:
- Wand or stick toys with a toy dangling from a string allow cats to feel like they are using their natural quickness and agility to catch something, while also providing an opportunity for interaction with you.
- Be cautious with these toys to ensure your cat doesn't bite or chew off a piece that could be a choking hazard.
Variety and Rotation:
- Cats like to have a variety of toys to keep them from getting bored, similar to how kids enjoy having a variety of toys.
- Rotate toys in different sequences to keep them exciting and new for your cat.
Simple Homemade Toys:
- Cats can also enjoy playing with simple, homemade toys like crumpled up paper balls, plastic rings from milk jugs, or cotton-tipped swabs.
- You can stuff old cotton socks with cotton balls and a little catnip, then tie a knot in the end for an interactive toy.
Visual Stimulation:
- Cats enjoy visual stimulation, especially watching birds, fish, rodents, and insects.
- If your cat doesn't have access to a window, consider providing them with a videotape or digital video of a nature show to watch when you're not around to play with them.
Safe Play:
- Ensure all toys are safe for your cat to play with and do not pose a choking hazard.
- Pay attention to your cat's preferences and remove any toys that become damaged or worn to prevent accidents.
