7 Fun Games to Play with Your Cat That They’ll Love

Playing with your cat is not just fun—it’s essential for keeping them healthy and happy.

Engaging in interactive games helps your feline friend stay active, mentally stimulated, and strengthens the bond between the two of you.

What are some fun and engaging games you can play with your cat? From simple toys to more interactive activities, there are many ways to keep your cat entertained and exercised.

Here, we will explore seven of the best games that you and your furry friend can enjoy together.

1) Feather Wand

A feather wand is one of the best toys to keep your cat entertained.

It consists of a stick with feathers attached to the end, mimicking the movement of prey.

Cats love chasing and pouncing on it.

Using the feather wand is super easy.

Just wave it around in the air or drag it across the floor.

Watch your kitty jump, stalk, and have a blast.

There are many types of feather wands available.

Some have bells, others make crinkly noises.

You can buy one from a pet store or make your own with a stick, string, and some feathers.

Playing with a feather wand helps your cat exercise and stay active.

It is also a great way to bond with your furry friend.

Plus, it satisfies their natural hunting instincts.

Remember to let your cat catch the feather sometimes.

This will keep them interested and prevent frustration.

Always supervise playtime to make sure your cat stays safe.

Feather wands are perfect for cats of all ages.

Kittens and older cats can both enjoy this simple yet exciting toy.

Give it a try and see how much fun you and your cat can have together!

2) Laser Pointer

Cats absolutely love chasing laser pointers.

It’s one of the easiest ways to keep your cat entertained and active.

You can use a physical laser pointer or a laser pointer app on your phone.

Just move the laser around and watch your cat go wild trying to catch that red dot.

This game is not only fun for your kitty but also great exercise.

It helps them burn off some energy, which is especially good for indoor cats who don’t get as much physical activity.

Always make sure to avoid shining the light in your cat’s eyes.

You can switch up the game by making the laser dot move in different patterns.

Try zig-zagging, circling, or making it disappear and reappear.

This keeps the game interesting and challenging for your cat.

There are even apps specifically designed for cats that simulate a laser pointer on your screen.

These apps often come with extra features, like different backgrounds or sounds that attract your cat’s attention.

It’s a handy option if you don’t have a physical laser pointer.

Remember to give your cat a tangible toy to catch occasionally.

This can prevent frustration since they can’t actually “catch” the laser.

3) Catnip Mouse

Cats go bonkers for catnip, and a catnip mouse toy is a guaranteed hit.

These small, stuffed toys are often filled with catnip and can really keep your cat entertained.

Toss the catnip mouse across the room and watch your cat zoom after it.

They’ll enjoy chasing, pouncing, and batting it around.

To add excitement, try hiding the catnip mouse in different spots.

Your cat will have fun searching for it and it can make playtime more engaging.

Rotate catnip mice regularly to keep your cat’s interest high.

Over time, the scent of the catnip can fade, so refreshing the toys or getting new ones can help maintain the fun.

4) Interactive Treat Dispenser

Interactive treat dispensers are great for keeping your cat entertained.

These toys challenge your cat to think and work for their food or treats.

It’s a fun way to provide mental stimulation.

You can find various shapes and sizes of treat dispensers.

Some are simple with one compartment, while others have multiple levels and sliding panels.

Your cat will have to figure out how to get to their tasty reward.

Not only do these toys keep your cat busy, but they also slow down their eating.

This is helpful if your cat tends to eat too fast.

Slowing down their eating can aid digestion and prevent overeating.

Interactive treat dispensers often have adjustable difficulty levels.

As your cat becomes more skilled, you can make the puzzles harder.

This keeps the game exciting and challenging for a longer time.

Treat dispensers are made from different materials like plastic or silicone.

Make sure to choose one that’s durable and easy to clean.

Many dispensers are dishwasher safe, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Using an interactive treat dispenser is simple.

Just fill it with your cat’s favorite treats or kibble and let them play.

It’s a fun and engaging way to spend time with your furry friend.

5) Puzzle Board

Puzzle boards are a great way to engage your cat’s brain.

These boards come with different compartments and areas where you can hide treats.

Your cat will need to figure out how to access the treats, which keeps them busy and mentally stimulated.

Try a puzzle board like the Trixie Cat Activity Fun Board.

It has various sections that challenge your cat in different ways.

Some parts might involve sliding pieces to reveal hidden treats, while others might require your cat to fish treats out with their paws.

Puzzle boards are great for slowing down fast eaters too.

If your cat tends to gobble their food quickly, using a puzzle board can help them eat at a healthier pace.

Additionally, interactive puzzle boards are ideal for keeping indoor cats entertained.

They mimic natural hunting behaviors, which can help satisfy your cat’s instincts.

Overall, a puzzle board is a fun and useful tool for your cat’s daily routine.

6) Automatic Ball Launcher

An automatic ball launcher can be a fantastic toy for your cat.

It’s designed to keep your kitty entertained by launching balls for them to chase.

Many cats love the thrill of the hunt, and an automatic ball launcher can bring out their inner predator.

Think of it like fetch, but the machine does the throwing for you.

This means you can sit back and watch your cat have a blast chasing after the balls.

Some launchers come with various modes to keep things interesting.

These ball launchers often come with multiple balls, so your cat can keep playing even if one gets lost.

Make sure to choose a ball that’s safe and suitable for cats, like a soft, non-toxic material.

Automatic ball launchers are especially great for indoor cats.

They provide plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation.

Your cat can enjoy hours of fun, and it’s a great way to make sure they stay active.

Set up the launcher in a safe space where your cat has plenty of room to run.

Watch as your kitty pounces, chases, and bats the ball around, burning off energy and having a ton of fun.

7) Crinkle Tunnel

Your cat will love the crinkle tunnel.

This toy is a tunnel that makes a crackling sound when your cat runs through it.

The sound keeps your cat engaged and curious.

Cats enjoy the noise and the enclosed space.

The tunnel also provides a sense of security.

You can use it indoors for hours of fun.

The crinkle tunnel is often portable and collapsible, making it easy to store.

You can bring it out whenever your cat needs some excitement.

Place a few treats inside to make it even more interesting.

You can also find crinkle tunnels with multiple exits.

These make the game even more fun as your cat can dart in and out from different directions.

Importance of Playtime with Your Cat

Playing with your cat is crucial for their physical health, mental stimulation, and strengthening the bond between you and your feline friend.

Physical Health Benefits

Regular play keeps your cat active and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Cats that play often tend to have better muscle tone and agility.

Interactive play can prevent obesity, which is a common issue for indoor cats.

Engaging in activities like chasing a laser pointer or feather toy mimics hunting behaviors.

This keeps your cat fit and their reflexes sharp.

Ensuring your cat gets enough exercise also helps avoid health problems like diabetes and arthritis.

A healthy cat is a happier cat.

Mental Stimulation

Playtime isn’t just about physical exercise; it’s also vital for your cat’s mental health.

Games that involve problem-solving, like puzzle feeders, help keep their mind sharp.

Interactive toys can reduce boredom and prevent behavior issues that arise from a lack of stimulation.

Cats need to engage their instincts, and play provides an outlet for that.

Toys that mimic prey, such as toy mice or wands, give them a mental workout.

This mental activity can prevent anxiety and depression in cats, making them more content and well-behaved.

Bonding Time

Spending time playing with your cat helps build a strong bond between you two.

Interactive play shows your cat that you care and enjoy spending time together.

This strengthens trust and affection.

When you engage in play, you’re communicating with your cat in a language they understand.

It’s a fun way to get to know their personality and preferences better.

Plus, a cat that feels loved and secure is usually more affectionate and less stressed.

In summary, regular playtime with your cat is essential for their well-being.

It promotes physical health, keeps their mind active, and strengthens your relationship.

So grab a toy and enjoy some quality time with your furry friend!

Creating a Safe Play Environment

When playing with your cat, it’s important to create a space where they can have fun without any risks.

Ensure your home is cat-proofed and select toys that are safe and engaging.

Cat-Proofing Your Home

Cats are curious and can get into trouble easily.

Start by ensuring all small objects, like coins and rubber bands, are out of reach.

These can be choking hazards.

Cover or tuck away electrical cords.

Cats might chew on them, which is dangerous.

Use cord covers or hide them behind furniture.

Keep toxic plants out of your home or in places where your cat can’t reach.

Common plants toxic to cats include lilies and poinsettias.

Block off spaces where your cat could get stuck, like behind heavy furniture.

Check for any sharp objects or fragile items that could harm your cat if knocked over.

Secure windows and balconies.

Cats love to climb and sometimes misjudge distances.

Install sturdy screens or keep such areas off-limits.

Choosing Safe Toys

Picking the right toys helps keep your cat entertained and safe.

Avoid toys with small parts that can be swallowed, like feathers or bells that aren’t securely attached.

Opt for toys made from non-toxic materials.

Consider soft rubber or sturdy fabric options.

If a toy starts to fall apart, get rid of it to prevent your cat from eating the pieces.

Interactive toys, like laser pointers and wand toys, are great.

They let you engage with your cat actively, promoting exercise and bonding.

Puzzle toys can be fun and challenging.

Look for treat-dispensers or ones where cats have to figure out how to get the treat.

This stimulates their mind and keeps them busy.

Rotate your cat’s toys every few days.

This keeps them from getting bored and makes old toys seem new again.

Remember, not all toys are store-bought.

Be creative with safe household items!

Understanding Feline Behavior During Play

Cats have unique behaviors during play that can offer insights into their instincts and needs.

Knowing these behaviors can help you create a more engaging and safe playtime experience for your pet.

Recognizing Play Aggression

During play, cats can sometimes show aggressive behaviors like biting, scratching, or pouncing.

This isn’t necessarily a sign of anger; it’s usually part of their natural playfulness.

Watch for signs like dilated pupils, sideways hopping, and pouncing.

These are typical play behaviors.

If your cat’s ears are pinned back or their tail is puffed up, it can signal overstimulation.

To keep playtime safe, use toys instead of your hands or feet.

Toys like feather wands or stuffed animals are good choices.

If your cat starts to get too rough, stop the game and give them a break.

This teaches them boundaries and reduces the chances of accidental injury.

Encouraging Natural Hunting Instincts

Cats love games that mimic hunting.

These activities help them stay mentally and physically active.

Use toys that resemble prey, like mice or birds.

Feather wands and laser pointers are great choices.

Move these toys in erratic patterns to mimic real prey.

Set up obstacle courses with cardboard boxes or tunnels to give your cat places to hide and pounce from.

Rotate toys regularly to keep your cat interested.

Interactive treat-dispensing toys can also satisfy their hunting instincts while providing mental stimulation.

This helps prevent boredom and keeps your cat engaged in a healthy way.