Cats are often perceived as independent animals, but many cat owners can attest to the moments when their feline friends transform into playful bundles of energy. But, do cats actually like to play with us, or are they just responding to certain stimuli and natural instincts?
Firstly, why is cat play important? Research into feline behaviour suggests that play is an essential aspect of a young cat's life, deeply rooted in their predatory instincts. Play in younger cats mimics hunting behaviours such as stalking, pouncing, and batting. While play is often linked to kittens' growth, studies show that play is important for the wellbeing of cats of all ages.
What types of play are there?
Cats differ in their inclination to play, but given the right opportunity, most cats will engage in playful behaviour of various forms including; object play, solitary play and social play.
While adult cats might choose less social play than kittens, they still seem motivated to engage in object or solitary play.
Each cat has his or her own individual preference regarding the context for play, and the type of play they most frequently choose to engage in.
Solitary play: Solitary play is when a cat plays along. It is often defined as ‘locomotor play’ or ‘self play’ - as it is done solo and doesn’t involve any objects. This may include bouts of a cat chasing its own tail or bounding around - it is a behaviour that does not appear to be social and doesn’t involve specific objects.
Object play: Object play is when a cat plays with something, like a toy or natural object. While it seems fun for the cat, it doesn't have an obvious immediate benefit other than exploring. Cats might also play with live prey, even if they are not hungry. Providing toys and objects for play is especially good for indoor cats, as it helps keep them entertained and engaged.
Social play: Social play is probably one of the most frequently used, but also most variedly defined, terms related to cat play. It may be simply defined as play behaviours directed to other cats, even play between different species in the same household (eg a dog and a cat, or a cat and a rabbit), but might also include play with a human.
Social play with other animals
Social play with other animals is wonderful to watch. However, recognising the difference between social play and actual fighting is essential for both animal and human wellbeing. If it is fighting, you will tend to see one cat dominate, with extended claws, aggressive bites, and frequent vocalisation. Whereas, mutual play involves equal role-swapping, retracted claws, gentle bites, and little-to-no vocalisation.
Common mutual play behaviours include:
Stand-over and belly-up: Gentle play fighting with retracted claws and inhibited bites.
Pounce: Crouching and pouncing on another cat.
Chase: Running after or away from another cat.
Face-off: Sitting or standing near another cat and batting with retracted claws.
In kittens, mutual play is a critical component of development. It helps them learn important survival skills such as the various motor movements involved in hunting and fighting, as well as social skills through interaction with their littermates. Adult cats continue to benefit from play, though their play behaviours and choices might change as they age. Engaging in play activities helps to keep adult cats physically fit, mentally stimulated, and emotionally balanced.
Social play with humans
To the big question now! Do cats want to play with humans too? Yes, it seems so!
Research shows that many cats appear to enjoy playing with their owners and it helps strengthen their bond. It provides both mental stimulation and physical exercise for the cat, especially those who live mainly inside the house.
Understanding your cat's individual personality and preferences will help you better assess when and how they want to play, ensuring a more enjoyable and engaging experience for both of you. A proviso is that the play activity you engage in must be well structured, so that it doesn’t inadvertently reward unwanted behaviours that could become problematic. Playing in cats involves an array of predatory behaviours that - when practiced - help the young cat to become more effective hunters. However, stalking, pouncing and biting are not behaviours that should be directed towards humans.
Mutual social play should always be positive and enriching for BOTH cat and human
Playing can be great, but only if both you and your cat enjoy it together. Pay attention to how your cat reacts when you invite them to play, and respect their choice to join in or not. This helps build a good relationship. No one likes being forced to do something they don't find fun.
Understanding your cat's individual personality and preferences will help you better assess when and how they want to play, what to avoid, and how to ensure a more enjoyable and enriching experience for both of you – so ensuring a good life for your cat.
Tips for encouraging safe and enjoyable play
Use appropriate toys: Cats can be finicky about their toys, so offering a variety of options can help you determine what your cat prefers. Toys that mimic prey, such as feather wands and small, plush toys that can be batted around, are often favourites. Rotating toys regularly can keep your cat interested and engaged. Avoid fingers, toes, and human body parts as toys. Choose safe toys without hard edges or detachable parts. Avoid laser pointers as they can cause frustration due to the lack of tangible rewards.
Make it interactive and experiment with play: Interactive play sessions with your cat can strengthen your bond and provide much-needed exercise. Try spending 15-30 minutes engaging your cat with a toy they can chase and pounce on. Take note of what sparks their interest - cats may enjoy watching a moving toy, indicated by forward-directed ears and whiskers. This not only satisfies their hunting instincts but also provides mental stimulation. Be sure to continually assess if they seem to want more play, or have had enough. It is a good idea to gradually reduce toy movement as you finish up the play time, to avoid frustration.
Respect their boundaries: While play is important, it's also crucial to respect your cat's boundaries. Some cats may prefer short, intense bursts of play, while others might enjoy longer, more leisurely sessions. Pay attention to your cat's body language and stop the play if they seem overstimulated (for example, showing flattened ears, hissing or growling, and sudden biting or scratching) or become disinterested.
Consider their environment also: Of course, interactions with us as their guardians is just one aspect of how they might bring out their playful side. Do also consider their environmental enrichment to encourage independent play. Cat trees, tunnels, and puzzle feeders can provide both physical and mental challenges. Placing toys in different areas of your home can also prompt your cat to explore and play on their own.
Most cats love to play, and regular play sessions benefit their wellbeing and strengthen your bond. Play also helps you monitor their health, as changes in play behavior can signal health issues, which should be checked by a vet.
Whether indoors, outdoors, or in shelters, cats need opportunities to feel happy. Give them different objects to play with, allow solo and structured play with humans, and ensure they have good nutrition, a safe environment, and positive interactions for a Good Life.
References
Cat Play Trudi Atkinson RVN,Dip.As(CABC),CCAB
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