Kitties are an amazing delight to have as pets. Fluffy is not only captivating to watch, but also incredibly personable and playful. As it turns out, spending time playing with your feline buddy is one of the best things you can do for her! In this article, a local Saginaw, MI veterinarian explains why.

It’s Excellent For Bonding

Kitties can be slow to warm up to new owners, especially if they have come from a bad situation. Playing is a great way to show your feline friend that she is safe and loved. Fluffy will recognize that you are doing something for her enjoyment. This will earn you lots of points, as well as some cuddles and purrs.

Playing Is A Perfect Icebreaker

Have you recently adopted a second (or third) kitty? Playing with your feline pals together is an excellent way to help them become friends. This will teach your kitties that pleasant things happen when they come together.

Just make sure both pets receive equal attention. Fluffy may become rather envious if she notices you holding that wand toy for Mittens but not for her!

Kitties, Like Humans, Require Exercise!

Staying fit and active is equally vital for cats and people. As you may have seen, many of our feline friends are prone to obesity. If Fluffy is anything more than fluffy, she may be in danger of significant health issues such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Obesity also creates a downward spiral, in which the heavier your pet becomes, the less active she is.

As you may have noticed, Fluffy is unlikely to run laps around the kitchen or jog up and down the stairs. In terms of motivation, grabbing that laser pointer or wand toy is definitely the way to go.

Burn Off Those Extra Zoomies

Our feline companions are notorious for being quite drowsy. Fluffy can sleep for up to 20 hours every day, though most furballs only get 14-16 hours. 

This is actually a feature, rather than a flaw. Cats in the wild use a lot of energy in short spurts when hunting, and then spend the rest of the day relaxing, which helps them to recover. A fast play session will simulate that natural rhythm. 

Granted, your cat may simply opt to sprint around the living room, but it’s best to allow your furball to let off steam appropriately. Otherwise, you may find your feisty feline climbing the walls … literally.

It Helps Scaredy Cats Become Confident

In the wild, our feline friends can be predators or prey. This has resulted in a highly unique and distinct set of purrsonality features. For instance, this may very well explain why our feline buddies can be both bold and wary, sometimes simultaneously. 

Cats, like humans, have distinct purrsonalities. Some are fearless and daring, while others are afraid of everything. If your cute pet fits into the latter category, go get that feather toy! Executing that difficult bounce/pounce strategy can make your shy friend feel much more confident about herself. If you have a nervous cat, consult your veterinarian for guidance on how to make her feel safer.

It’s A Healthy Outlet For Kitty Anxiety

Cats, like people, can become irritated, nervous, and frustrated. Fluffy could be steaming over a variety of things. She may be annoyed by the neighbor’s cat crossing her yard. Perhaps she is bored, lonely, or simply irritable. Taking that angst out on a catnip mouse is a far better outlet than attacking your ankles. Consider it the feline equivalent of pounding a punching bag or heading to the gym after a long day of work.

It’s Adorable!

Kitty playtime isn’t just for Fluffy; it may also be a lot of fun for you! Cats have a unique ability to lift our moods. Even just watching your pet run about can put a grin on your face. While hunting may be a serious profession for cats, they are very, very amusing to watch when they are concentrating on their ‘target.’ 

Our feline companions not only charm us and provide us with cuddles and love, they also provide us with live entertainment!

Fluffy Likes Playing

It doesn’t take a professional evaluation to see that Fluffy enjoys playing. In fact, many animals engage in some form of play. It’s always enjoyable to witness how happy cats get when they spy a catnip mouse or that elusive red dot! 

At the end of the day, there is a lot to be said for simply having fun. That is important for both humans and animals!

Cats Should Unleash Their Inner Tigers

Cats have a few particularly unusual characteristics. Fluffy is the only one of our animal pals who has not been domesticated, in the sense of being dependent on us. Many pets and animals would struggle to survive in the wild. Cats, on the other hand, are highly effective hunters. They don’t need us; they’ve allegedly chosen the lives of pampered pets over having to labor for their food.

Nonetheless, kitties are born with strong hunting instincts. Stalking, pouncing, scratching, and biting would all help your cat catch her dinner in the wild. Allow your darling little companion to indulge her inner serial murderer every once and again!

Should I Play With My Feline Daily?

In general, yes. If you miss a day, your furry buddy probably won’t be too upset with you. However, in general, we recommend spending at least a few minutes every day holding a laser pointer or wand toy for your pet to chase. 

Keep in mind that this does not have to take a lot of time. Simply have a laser pointer or feather toy near your favorite relaxation area to have handy while you are watching television.

What is the Recommended Playtime for Cats?

That is ultimately up to you and Fluffy. Don’t worry about overexerting your cat; it’s nearly impossible. The moment your furball becomes weary, she will just stop playing and stroll off in search of her next napping area.

What Are Cats’ Favorite Toys?

All of our canine companions have their own preferences and dislikes. Fluffy may enjoy catnip mice, Mittens may enjoy chasing a laser pointer, while Pumpkin may simply want to bat a crushed-up paper ball about. Experiment and see what your feline companion prefers.

If you have more than one cat, you may need to provide diversity. Your pets’ tastes will most likely differ.

How Can I Play With My Feline Safely?

Most accidents can be avoided with a few simple precautions. First and foremost? Only use safe cat toys. Don’t let your furry pal play with anything that could cut, poison, or choke her. That includes pen caps, rubber bands, paper clips, and tacks. Also, put rope toys away after you’re done. You don’t want Fluffy getting entangled if she tries to use them while you’re out!  Plastic bags and ties are also harmful. For further information, ask your Saginaw, MI veterinarian.

Make An Appointment At Your Saginaw, MI Pet Hospital

Do you have any queries or concerns about your cat’s health and care? Please contact us today! As your  Saginaw, MI animal clinic, we are always delighted to assist!