It is well-known that cats just love playing.
But it is not just about keeping themselves entertained: play is used by cats as training to solve everyday problems.
Even if we are used to seeing our cat playing by itself, this does not mean that the cat does not associate social interaction and relations with its playtime activities.
Kittens already start playing with each other after just a few weeks of life. However uncoordinated and imprecise it may seem, they are already beginning to learn to interact with their peers. Then as they grow, they perfect their movements and motor coordination by jumping, running and strange little bouncing movements.
Kittens unknowingly hone their hunting techniques while in the litter. The kittens take turns chasing each other, taking turns to be first the hunter and then the hunted. As they play, their instincts create a perfect training environment for real life.
Cats are also very fond of objects in general, and practically anything that attracts their attention. Regardless of whether a broken box or a ball, cats love interacting and discovering everything there is to know about their new object.
An owner’s supervision is essential In this phase of life,. Balls of wool, string and fishing line can all be swallowed, create severe stomach obstructions and have serious consequences.
However, playtime for your cat can also be an excellent opportunity for the owner to initiate the first learning steps for its animal. Then again, if play with humans tends to result in biting or scratching, a useful method is to stop the game immediately and teach the cat the need to moderate its behaviour.