Playing Games With Your Cat

Contrary to popular belief, many adult cats are playful and enjoy regular games well into their senior years. Play provides essential exercise, mental stimulation, and enrichment — and the best games are often the ones that involve you.
 

Interactive Play Builds Bonds

Games where you participate help strengthen the bond between you and your cat. Simple favourites include:

• Chasing balls or wind-up mice

• Wand toys or toys dangled on a string (always supervised)

• Gentle games of hide and seek

• “Search and eat” games, where treats are hidden for your cat to find

These activities don’t just entertain — they help keep your cat confident, engaged, and connected to you.
 

Toy Safety Matters

Always choose toys that are safe and appropriate for cats:

• Avoid toys with small parts that could be chewed off and swallowed

• String, wool, and yarn are not safe — they can be ingested and cause serious intestinal problems

• Cardboard boxes and paper shopping bags (never plastic) make excellent, safe play spaces

Regularly inspect toys for wear and replace them when needed.
 

Screens, Sounds & Curiosity

Many cats enjoy watching moving images on television. Some cats are fascinated by videos of fish, birds, or small animals, and there are even programs designed specifically for feline viewers. While this can be fun enrichment, it should never replace real interaction.
 

Everyday Life Is Play Too

More than toys or screens, your cat enjoys being part of your daily routine. Let them follow you around the house, sit nearby while you work, or keep you company in the garden (safely supervised). Talk to your cat — they find comfort in the sound of your voice and the attention it brings.
 

Yes, Cats Can Be Trained!

Training is often overlooked in cats, but many cats can learn simple cues such as sit, come, or wave. All it takes is:

• Patience

• Positive reinforcement

• Plenty of tasty treats

Keep training sessions short and fun, and always end on a positive note.
 

Follow Your Cat’s Lead

Every cat is different. When it comes to play and enrichment, let your imagination — and your cat’s preferences — guide you. The goal is enjoyment, engagement, and a happy, fulfilled companion.