When you look at what cats do in the  wild, it is obvious why they need to  play. They sleep as much as 16  hours per day and when they’re  awake, they need the exercise that  play provides. In the wild, when they aren’t  sleeping, lions and tigers and other  wild cats are stalking and hunting  their prey or teaching their young to  do so. Some benefits of play  include:

• Exercise
  Exercise is vital for keeping your cat healthy and sane. Playing with your cat and having your cat romp around with others is a perfect way for your cat to get exercise, both physically and mentally.
• Release of Anxiety
  Anxiety and stress are as harmful to cats as they are to the rest of us. Cats under stress are more apt to develop behavioral problems such as agression, urine marking, or obsessive-compulsive disorders.
• Relief of Boredom
  Cats especially, being naturally curious, can get depressed and lethargic. Cats need some sort of challenge every day. Watch a cat try to grab at a ball that is spinning around randomly in a circle. He is concentrating so hard that a simple movement of your foot can send him skyrocketing into the air. Whether he is looking out the window at chattering birds, or chasing a feather stick, he loves and needs to play.
• Feel Good
  Play, by definition, is something to make whomever is playing feel good. And your cat deserves to feel good, doesn’t he?
• Bonding With Other Cats or Animals in the House
  Cats chase other cats, cats entice dogs to chase after them, and cats even chase dogs in some households! This type of behavior provides much-needed bonding. Playing with your cat can even bond him to you - and who couldn’t stand more bonds in their lives?

How to Provide Play for Your Felines

Usually, cats enjoy playing both inside the house and outdoors. There are a variety of ways that you can make playtime, inside or out, more fun for your cat.

Inside
Look through our toy section to find something your cat can swat at. Da Bird Toy is one of our most popular items. It provides exercise and entertainment for you and your cat. We’re not sure who enjoys it more - cats or their owners!

A cat tree is a perfect place for your cat to perch to lie in wait for another cat - or even the dog! Anything that towers over the rest of the home’s inhabitants will do. Window perches are especially popular since they allow kitty to see all that nature affords.  [ Read More... ]