Playing With Your Cat

Our feline friends are very fun little pets. Fluffy is quite frisky, and she’s absolutely adorable when she’s hard at play. Taking time to play with your furry friend regularly will actually benefit her both mentally and physically. However, there are a few do’s and don’ts to consider here. A veterinarian offers some advice on playing with Fluffy in this article by Hassayampa Veterinary Services, serving Wickenburg and the surrounding communities. 

Try New Things

Cats all have their own unique tastes. One furball may love chasing the red dot from a laser pointer, while another may just yawn at it. Experiment with different toys.

Pick Up Wand Toys

Many kitties love playing with string toys. Just pick these up once you’ve finished playing. Fluffy could get entangled playing with a string toy when there’s no one around. 

Make It Routine

Kitties are definitely creatures of habit. If you pay attention, you’ll notice that Fluffy probably sticks to a pretty set schedule for her 12 daily meals, 42 naps, and four meditation sessions. Try to play with your furry buddy at roughly the same time each day. This will also give your pet something to look forward to.

Don’t Tolerate Rough Play

Cats are hunters by nature. Fluffy takes her ‘lioning’ practice quite seriously, and may scratch or bite you. If she bites lightly or bats you playfully with her paw, but doesn’t use force or extend her claws, she’s just being silly. However, if she truly attacks, it’s a different story. Nip that habit in the bud! Don’t punish your feisty feline. Just reprimand her verbally in a stern, disapproving tone of voice, and then walk away.

Don’t Play Favorites

Do you have more than one cat? Spend equal time and attention on them. Kitties can get quite jealous of one another, so showing favoritism in playtime can cause or escalate tensions. 

Keep It Up

As Fluffy ages, she’ll slow down, and she’ll tire out more quickly than she used to. However, that doesn’t mean you should stop playing with her. In fact, playing is great for older kitties. Your feline buddy may not last long, but that’s okay. Even a few minutes a day will be beneficial for her.

Do you have questions about caring for your cat? Please contact us at Hassayampa Veterinary Services, your local animal clinic, serving Wickenburg and the surrounding communities.