In this article, we talk about how fundamental play is for an indoor cat and what are the favourite games. (And also because cats play with their prey)
Playing as the expression of predatory behaviour for a cat is fundamental. It is in fact considered one of the pillars of the environmental needs of cats (ISFM).
Why the espression of predatory behaviour is essential for cats
Play in cats (especially for those who lives indoors) is important for several reasons:
- Being able to exercise and vent their predatory instincts. In nature, cats consume a significant portion of their daily hunting activities, which requires both mental and physical activity and concentration. Exercising this instinct makes them active and energized.
- Physical exercise.
What does the lack of expression of the predatory instinct (and play) in a cat involve:
The impossibility or lack of opportunities to express this behaviour can lead to obesity or boredom, but also frustration that can be expressed in the form of over-grooming, diseases associated with stress (find out more here) or unjustified aggressive behaviour.
But why do cats play with their prey?
It is thought that cats play with their prey to better manipulate them and avoid being bitten by small rodents or reptiles.
Other hypotheses, on the other hand, suggest that it is due to the fact that some cats do not know how to effectively kill their prey and therefore are reduced to chasing it here and there.
The movement then keeps alive the cat’s interest in chasing and killing prey.
Another hypothesis is that the cat simply likes to hunt.
Read also Pulse-oximetry in veterinary medicine
Some tips (and cat toys to avoid)
- All toys that are made up of tapes and that can be destroyed and swallowed must be put away after the game and not remain available to the cat.
- Avoid buying toys that are too small or have parts that can be swallowed such as bells and feathers.
- Avoid using your hands and feet for play for your own and other people’s safety.
Kittens usually have a lot more need and desire to play. Make sure the toys are the right size and the textures are safe for their fragile and sticky nails. They often need to play together with other cats and with greater intensity. - Use different games alternating in order to discourage boredom and habit.
Some tips to encourage your cat to play (and recommended games):
? Avoid laser pointers. It can be harmful and the frustration of never reaching the pointer can put stress on the cat.
? Some cats really like small stuffed toys and furry objects that can be caught and manipulated.
? Make sure the cat can catch the toy from time to time during play. You can also help/encourage them to keep playing with some treats when they catch it.
? if you have multiple cats, maybe be better to separate them to play. Cats are solitary predators and may get stressed out playing in groups. Make sure you hide games in different areas of the house to multiply resources and reduce competition.
? Older cats also need to play. Always be careful to ensure that play is safe and prevents joint trauma.
? You can use food treats to encourage hunting. Hide food around the house or use puzzle feeders. They can be made at home at no cost (for example) (or as Dr Monia did in this video) or bought on the internet like this.
? What about catnip?
Cats are naturally attracted to Nepeta cataria, an aromatic herb that has a relaxing and diuretic effect on humans but exciting on cats. It acts like a ‘drug’ but its effect is short and completely harmless.
Some theories say it reminds them of feline pheromones this has not been proven.
Many games on the market contain it, such as these that I find super cute.
? Don’t forget to provide your cat with lots of different and fun ways to hide.
Providing a safe place is also among the pillars of the cat’s well-being and this allows them to have control over their environment, to decide whether or not to interact with the other housemates at that particular moment. An example of a game and hiding place is the tunnel.
And when the cat is admitted to the clinic? Tips for veterinary nurses
In the event that the cat has to spend several hours in the clinic, veterinary hospital cat cages should be large enough to allow all resources to be present and well-spaced.
These include a place to rest and hide, food and water, and the litter box, preferably located away from the bowls.
- Play is essential for cat rehabilitation. If the cat is able and is allowed to move (always respecting its health), re-activating the feline instinct will help it relax and relieve stress and heal faster!
- It is possible to create small dens to hide and make the cat feel safer inside cardboard boxes or other kennels.
- If, as mentioned, the stay is prolonged, prefer large cages, or for dogs to increase the space.
- Ideally, the cages should not be facing each other so that the cats can see each other. If this is not possible, put a cloth in front of the cage to help the cat relax and avoid colliding with the neighbour.
- Cages raised above the ground are preferred whenever possible.
- Cats, inside the hospital, should be separated from dogs to reduce stress.
- Natural pheromones can be used to help the cat be more relaxed. These are my favourites.
Veterinary staff have the opportunity to inform and sensitize owners on the environmental needs of cats, helping them to achieve a more peaceful coexistence for both.
Conclusion
In conclusion, playing with your cat in a way that expresses his predatory instincts is a way to show him love and satisfy his intrinsic needs.
Do you have any other suggestions or comments? Let me know if you liked it below ?
Resources
https://icatcare.org/advice/why-do-cats-like-catnip/
https://icatcare.org/advice/why-do-cats-play-with-their-prey/
https://www.thecatvet.co.uk/uploads/1/1/4/0/11405474/_isfm_aafp_cat_environmental_needs_guidelines.pdf
https://icatcare.org/education/?fbclid=IwAR176ZiGjAC4bxTeJcbQpQwvmbAkjGOSlgXLYw4YjbJi9knT0vghjfAB9Dg