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Pet Medication Home -> How To Build a Cattery
"How To Keep Your Cat
Happy and Healthy - Playtime for Kitty"
While dogs tend to get lots of exercise, cats are often left to
their own devices, having to find their own ways of exercising if
they are kept indoors.
Cats have gone from working animals to creatures of
leisure. In the past, a cat spent most of its day hunting, keeping
the homestead free of rodents. Today, most cats are pure companions
who spend the day waiting for their beloved human to return home.
Even if you work from home, it is important to set aside some time
to play with your cat. Interacting with you stimulates her physically
and mentally, keeping her healthy in body and mind.
The time of day you play depends on your schedule
and your cat's natural rhythms. Some cats like a leisurely morning,
while others are fired up from the moment they open their eyes.
It may take a while to find the time that fits both of you. Once
you've found it, however, don't be surprised to see your cat expecting
play at that time each day. Cats are creatures of habit, and they
feel most secure with a regular schedule.
Play time helps with some behavior problems. A rousing game of chase-the-lure
will take the edge off of a frisky feline who tends to attack her
owner's ankles. A good dose of interaction also fills her need for
your undivided attention and may make her less likely to drape herself
across you at an inopportune time.
Remember that if you don't want your cat to play with
your plants while you're away, don't' use plant fronds as lures
during play time. The same thing applies to hands; if you don't
want your cat to pounce on unsuspecting visitors hands, don't use
yours as a toy when playing with her. If you purchase toys for your
cat, check to make sure that all small pieces are secured tightly.
The best toys for cats are often home-made and only
need YOUR interaction.
My favorite is "fishing" with a piece of
string or a stick. Hold the string/stick above the head of your
cat pretending its a fishing rod. Your cat will delight in jumping
and swatting, especially if you let her catch it once in a while.
Another favorite with my cats is to crumple a piece
of paper. Just the sound of the paper seems to get them excited.
Show the cats the ball of paper and then throw it for them. Watch
as they chase it round the room in delight.
Some toys, such as lures attached to string should
only be played with when you are there to manipulate it. If you
leave it set up for her while you are gone, there is a chance she
could become tangled in the string and choke. Pet supply stores
carry some captivating self-play toys, such as a ball inside a track
that will keep your kitty safely content while you are away. A kitty
condo or carpeted tree is good investment. The multiple levels encourage
climbing, while the hiding holes allow your cat to indulge her stalking
instinct. Toys need not be expensive. Create a cat puzzle by taping
a toilet paper roll tube to the floor and placing a cat treat inside.
Your cat will enjoy trying o get the treat from the tube.
Be sure that you remain in control during playtime.
If your cat starts to play roughly, rub a stuffed animal against
her belly and quickly withdraw your hands. This directs her aggressive
behavior onto the toy and away from you. If she ignores the toy
and continues to play-attack you, end the play session and walk
away. Come back in a few moments and try again. After awhile, she
will learn that you control the level of play, not her.
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