Exercise and Play
How should I play with my cat?
Cats love to stalk, chase, and pounce. Use hand held toys (not your own body parts as this can lead to inappropriate biting/scratching) that encourage this behavior. Drag any toy with a small rope (but don’t let the cat chew the string). You can even teach your cat to sit, jump and play fetch using positive reinforcement techniques with treats/praise.
- Laser pointer--Cats love to chase the dot!
- End play time with the laser toy with a toy the cat can catch or a treat
- Cat Dancer 301 Cat Charmer
- Go Cat Catcher Teaser Wand with
- Mouse Cat Toy
- MYLAR Crinkle Balls
- These toys allow you and your cat to have fun together!
How do I get my cat to exercise when I am not home?
Some cats keep themselves busy, but most will sleep all day! You can hide treats for your cat to search and find. Your cat may play with other pets in the house, but if not, you can encourage play with electronic toys. Bird feeders outside your windows, TV, or a radio can also keep your cat entertained.
- Cats Meow Moving undercover mouse electronic cat toy
- Ideas in Life rotating mouse kitten toy
- Smart Cat Peek and play toy box
- CatIt Treat Ball
- Bergan turbo track cat toy
- Kitty City pouncing paws motorized cat toy
- These toys don't require your presence to engage the cat. Electronic toys can be set to turn on several times a day for short periods of time.
- One Fast Cat exercise wheel
- A great way for your cat to excercise indoors, but will require some training
Does my cat need a scratching post?
Your cat needs a place to scratch as well as to climb and explore. Cat condos help deter your cat from climbing on the furniture. They often include places to hide, and scratch as well. A natural wood firelog or and old wicker chair can be great for scratching.
- Bergan turbo scratcher cat toy
- KONG naturals Incline Scratcher Toy
- These are designed to attract your cat to scratch
- Cat Tree Scratcher Play House Condo, SmartCat multilevel cat climer
- Put these in front of an uncovered window and your cats will love them!
Can I take my cat for walks?
It depends on the cat! The only safe way is on a leash with a special cat harness. Introduce your cat to the outdoors one step at a time, using lots of treats until she is comfortable. Some cats will enjoy this and others will prefer to stay indoors.
- Coastal Pet Black Mesh Cat Harness, Kitty Holster Cat Harness
- Savvy Tabby Nylon Cat Harness
- These harnesses keep your cat securely attached to the leash outdoors, never rely on just a collar!
- Strollers
Is it okay to give my cat catnip?
Yes, but not all cats will react to it.