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Indoor Cat Initiative

Toys

My ancestors had to hunt insects, birds, mice and other small animals to survive. Since they had to catch 10 or 20 of these morsels every day, they had to be ready to pounce at a moments notice. I don't have to hunt anymore, but I still like to pounce. Having things to stalk and pounce on also makes me happy, and helps keep me healthy and active.

There are many different kinds of toys; you could buy me some of these, or make some yourself. Because of my heritage, I like toys that do something. Toys that squeak, chirp, jitter, swing or vibrate remind me of moving meals, enticing me to interact with it. The first toy you might try is a furry mouse that makes noise and moves. Some even have catnip in them! You can just roll it past me on the floor to catch my attention; I'll let you know if it looks like lunch. Since we're each individuals, some of us like some toys better than others. Just offer us a few and we'll show you what we like!

I also like toys such as a wand or stick with a toy dangling from the end of a string.

They make me feel like I'm using my natural quickness and agility to catch something, and they let me interact with you. Just let the toy dangle in front me, then slowly drag it away. Sometimes I can get carried away attacking it, so please be sure I can't bite or chew off a piece I could choke on.

Balls are another great item to use, because they let me "chase and capture". I am very good at swatting balls. Things that move on their own also fascinate me, so balls (like ping pong balls) and furry little mice toys that move are great.

I also like toys I can catch, pick up, and toss in the air so I can catch them again. These are excellent to pass the time while you are away. You can fill balls with food or treats to encourage me to play — I feel like I am having a hunting and stalking session, and catching my own meal.

There isn't a set number of toys I need, but I need variety to keep from getting bored with the toys. I'm like one of the kids; I like to have a batch of toys that can be rotated a few at a time to keep me interested. You can rotate them in different sequences to make the old toys seem new and exciting. Without this, I'll just get bored, sleep twenty-three hours a day, and maybe get fat. Sometimes I might love a toy so much that I may start sleeping next to it. When I do this I'm telling you I'd like to keep it, and please don't include it in the rotation.

I also enjoy playing with simple things like crumpled up paper balls, the plastic rings off of milk jugs, the center rolls from toilet paper, cotton-tipped swabs, paper towels, lots of things. You can even stuff old cotton socks with cotton balls and a little catnip, then tie a knot in the end. I need an assortment of toys I can roll, pounce on, capture and sink my teeth into, carry and chase. As long as it is safe for me, please let me play with it.

Also because of my hunting heritage, I like visual stimulation. If I don't have (or can't get to) a window to look out of, you could buy or make me a videotape from a nature show that has live action. I especially like to watch birds, fish, rodents and insects. These videos are great once in awhile when you can't be around to play with me.