Cats Want to Hunt

Cats are natural born hunters. They live to hunt. You know that the kingdom of wild cats such as lions and tigers hunt but of course it is essential that they do so in order to survive. Domesticated cats who live with humans do not need to hunt because they have people to feed them. Just because they do not need to hunt does not mean that they do not want to hunt. Did you know that when a cat plays with a catnip mouse or a candy wrapper that they are actually utilizing their hunting skills? The ability and desire to hunt is ingrained in every cat. Hunting is part of their nature and their behavior. Although you kitty may not be hunting a live animal, that stuffed duck is still thought of as prey to him. Cats want to hunt.

Allowing cats to be cats is essential for their well-being. Cats are naturally athletic creatures however, domesticated cats sometimes have a hard time being athletic when they are kept in cramped quarters such as a house, room or apartment. Outdoor cats have more freedom to be athletic however, the outdoors can be a dangerous place for a cat to live. Keeping a balance of play and sleep for your kitty is vital. Here are some suggestions that can get you started:

Know When to Play

Knowing the right time to play with your cat can be difficult at times especially if you live in a multiple cat household. On one hand it is a good idea to have more than one cat so that they can play with each other. However, one cat might want to play while the other cat does not. This is where you intervene. Make sure that you give all your kitties an opportunity to play. Playing uses up excessive energy therefore, playing with your kitties at night might make them tired so that they and you can sleep.

Toys Everywhere

You probably have cat toys scattered all around your home, don’t you? They may not be in plain view but lift up the sofa or look under the stove and you will find them. With the vast variety of cat toys to choose from where do you begin? Think about your cats hunting behavior and start there. Does your cat like to run and chase things, then focus on ball type toys. If your cat likes to bat at things then try items that rattle or crinkle for that extra stimulation. Of course there is always the option of catnip infused toys. Catnip is usually a big hit with just about any cat with the exception of kittens who are not old enough to appreciate it.

Cat Games

Hunting prey is the favorite game of most cats. The enjoyment of stalking, sneaking, pouncing, and chewing on that unexpected prey gives cats such joy and is great exercise too. The best kinds of toys are: mice, balls, feathers and strings. These items all represent prey for your little hunter. Tie these items to a stick and move it around the room to simulate a chase or fling it through the air as if it were a bird. Don’t just only move the toy around. Cats love to stalk their prey so allow the toy to move slowly once in a while so that your kitty can watch it. It is very important that you let your kitty capture the toy and chew on it once in a while. After all, cats always get their prey. When you are through with the toys be sure to put away anything that might be a choking hazard to your cat.

Playing with your kitty is not only good exercise for them but for you as well especially if your kitty does not bring back the ball that you throw it. Exercising your cats hunter behavior also provides you and your cat time together which is essential for bonding. Happy hunting!