Does your feline friend sometimes pounce on bottlecaps, or bat cotton swabs around the house? Kitties are very playful, which is one reason they’re so much fun to have around. Fluffy’s frisky streak is very much tied into the ingrained predatory instincts she was born with. It’s important for her to let her inner lion out sometimes! An Ardmore, OK vet lists some reasons to play with your furry buddy in this article.
It’s Great Exercise
It’s probably not much of a surprise to learn that the majority (roughly 60%) of our feline pals are obese. Fluffy tends to be very active as a kitten, but slows down over time. Playing is a great way to keep your kitty in shape. Even a few minutes of running and jumping will burn some calories!
Playing Offers Cats Mental Stimulation
Our furry friends are nothing if not sleepy: Fluffy can spend up to 20 hours a day snoozing. However, your furball can’t sleep all the time. It’s important for kitties to have enrichment, entertainment, and stimulation. Playing provides all three! Not only is this important for your pet’s mental and emotional well-being, it’s also great for her mind. Timing that tricky (but adorable) run/jump/roll/kick sequence requires focus!
Playtime Is Great For Bonding
Cats may get a lot of flack for being cold and aloof, but they’re actually quite affectionate, and can form very strong bonds with their humans. When you make an effort to please Fluffy by playing with her, she’ll know you’re doing something to make her happy. That will definitely score you some purrs. (And head bonks and leg rubs.)
It Reduces Anxiety
Have you ever had a bad day, and gone for a walk or run to work it off? That also works for cats! If Fluffy is feeling anxious, lonely, scared, or depressed, a fun play session can help her work off her kitty angst in a healthy way. This is also a great confidence booster for a nervous kitty.
It’s Really Cute!
Last but certainly not least, kitties are always super cute when they’re feeling frisky. Fluffy is charming, hilarious, and just lots of fun to watch. Chances are, you’ll end up with a smile on your face as well. It’s hard not to chuckle at our feline pals’ playful antics.
Do you have questions about your cat’s health, care, or diet? Please contact us, your local Ardmore, OK pet hospital, anytime!
