Playing games with your cat is a great way to bond. Every cat is different, so it’s important to get to know your cat, and to know their body language.
If you have a kitten in your life, play is an essential part of development and growth. Even adult and senior cats appreciate staying active and getting physical and mental stimulation from playing games. Plus, they’ll enjoy spending time with their favorite humans!
Here are five fun, easy games your cat will love.
1. Bathtub Ping Pong
This is a nice, easy game. All you need is a bath tub and a ping pong ball.
Make sure you remove soap and anything that can potentially get knocked over or spook Captain Whiskers. Drop in the ping pong ball and watch your cat play!
2. Fetch
Fetch isn’t just for dogs. Some cat breeds are even likely to enjoy a good game of fetch and will naturally retrieve for you.
If you throw a small toy that your cat can carry, then you just might find the toy coming back for you to throw again. Give your kitty plenty of rewards if that happens!
3. The Shell Game
Put a bell, treat, or toy under one of three identically colored cups, or “shells.” Shuffle the cups around like a magician and see if your cat is able to follow the item and pick the right cup.
This is a great way to give your cat some mental stimulation!
4. Hidden Treasure
This is a good game to play if you need to slow down your cat’s eating or give them a mental workout at meal time.
Put a small piece of meat or a treat inside a piece of paper and crumple it up, but not too tightly. Cats like paper and mystery, and they love treats!
5. Hide and Seek
Hide and seek is a classic game for human children, but sometimes our pets love it, too!
You can hide anywhere — behind a couch or curtain or wherever else you can find a somewhat easy hiding spot. Let your cat find you. But be on guard; cats are crafty!
Also note that if you’re playing with your cat using a toy, even if your cat watches but does not interact, they’re still being stimulated and bonding with you. Consider their life enriched!
What games do you like to play with your cat? Do you have any easy favorites for other cat lovers to try? Then let us know in the comments below!
