It's officially football season, and football players aren't the only ones who should be catching, kicking, chasing and tackling! As catio days become more infrequent and our cats start to spend more time indoors, toys and interactive play becomes even more important in keeping them active and healthy.
Using toys from the new Supurr League Football box, here are some fun and simple football-inspired ways to play with your cat that support enrichment.
First, some frequently asked questions:
What is enrichment, and why does my cat need it?
Feline enrichment includes toys, activities, and experiences that provide mental stimulation, physical exercise, and opportunities for kitty to use their natural hunting instincts. Enrichment is important because it helps keep cats happy and healthy, preventing boredom-induced behaviours like excessive vocalization or clawing the furniture. Daily playtime, a steady variety of toys, supervised outdoor time and cat climbing shelves or towers are just a few ways to offer your cat enrichment.
Why is it important to play with my cat?
Interactive play offers enrichment benefits that solo play may not. When you play with your cat, you can intentionally move toys in a way that stimulates their natural hunting instincts and encourages healthy puzzle-solving skills. Playing simple "games" with your cat may pique their interest in toys they would overlook if they were lying motionless on the floor.
Of course, playing together also gives you valuable bonding time! For cats that don't have a buddy, interactive play with their humans is especially important for social enrichment.
Why does my cat lose interest in toys?
Cats can lose interest in toys when they become bored with the same toy or play routine. Try rotating your cat's toys, introducing different types of toys, and changing how you move interactive toys. Mimicking the unpredictable movements of prey can also make playtime more engaging for kitty.
What are the benefits of a monthly cat subscription box?
A monthly cat subscription box like meowbox gives your cat something new to discover every month. With a variety of fun, themed toys and tasty treats, it helps keep playtime interesting while saving you the work of picking out items at the pet store. meowbox toys are specially designed for enrichment, with different types of toys and treats to keep your cat hooked!
How often should I play with my cat?
You should try to play with your cat for at least 15 to 20 minutes every day, or shorter sessions that match their interest and energy level. Kittens with more energy to burn will need more play, whereas senior kitties generally need less playtime.
Let's kick off the fun!
Friday Night Bites catnip 2-pack
Read (and Sniff) the Field
Hide the plushies around the house in spots that are accessible to your cat, and watch them use their problem-solving skills to "hunt" them.
Sensory Scramble
Place the toys in a paper bag (cut off any handles), along with a few other toys, dry catnip, or crumpled-up paper.
Touchdown Teaser catnip wand
Flea-flicker
Slowly drag the string toward your cat, and flick it away right before they attack it. Let kitty catch it after a few rounds.
Stutter Swipe
Skitter the wand in quick, erratic motions away from your cat, imitating the movement of prey.
Play the Field crinkle mat
Audible
Hide with the mat and crinkle it, encouraging your cat to follow the sound. Make sure to reward them with a treat when they find you!
Roll-Up
Roll up the mat with a couple of pieces of kibble or treats inside, encouraging your cat to paw and sniff for the hidden reward.
Claws on the Ball wool cat toy
Bullet Pass
Throw the toy in a fast, straight line for your cat to chase.
Batted Ball
When your cat has pent-up energy, get their attention and gently toss the toy within their reach so they can bat it.
Number Fun catnip toy*
*This is the substituted toy for No Food plans.
Tip (Over) Drill
Tap into your cat's innate urge to knock objects over by placing the toy on the edge of a dresser, bookshelf or cat tree.
Change of Direction
Place the toy near rugs, furniture or houseplants to help redirect destructive behaviours.
Yappetizers Tuna & Salmon Food Topper*
*The treat in your box may vary depending on country and available inventory.
Halftime Hydration
Mix about a quarter teaspoon of this crumbly treat with a couple tablespoons of water.
Dig Route
Sprinkle the treat in an empty toilet paper roll for a tasty and rewarding game.
Bonding with your cat is the biggest win
Unlike the big leagues, these are just tips: there are no penalties in this playbook! Don't be afraid to make up your own games with your cat, incorporating toys and items around the house like cardboard boxes or crumpled paper. Feel free to share all the action on social and tag us @meowbox!
Put these plays into practice 🏈
Monthly cat subscription box (every-other-month plans available), meowbox
Is your cat ready to hit the field? The Supurr League Football box is available for a limited time only, while supplies last.
Get meowbox here!