Cat Toys Are For More Than Just Fun

An active cat is a healthy cat.  Cats are naturally curious and playful animals and love new things to frolic around with.  But did you know that providing cats with toys to play with is also great for their health? 

Playing is how young animals learn new skills such as co-ordination, hunting and balance,  so it is especially important to provide a new kitten with toys that can help with their physical development.  Small furry mice or balls are great toys for kittens to improve their co-ordination,  although they do look cute while they are in the falling-over stage!

Of course this doesn´t mean that the fun should end when your cat gets older.  Playing with toys can help to keep your cat physically and mentally active.  Choose toys that will stimulate your cat and prevent them from getting bored.  Small cat toys that can be rolled, tossed or chased are great for bringing out the predator in your cat, allowing them to exercise their natural urge to pounce, trap and chew.  Choose toys that have catnip included for maximum excitement for your pet.

Dangling toys are another irresistible temptation for cats,  and can get them jumping and stretching. Poles with a small toy dangling at the end are a fun way for owner and pet to interact and play together.  If your cat has become a bit lazy and is in need of some exercise,  get him moving again by tempting him with this kind of toy.

To make sure your cat doesn´t get bored while you are not around, consider a cat activity centre, a scratching tree with play areas, rustling tunnels or bags or a free standing toy that your cat can enjoy on his own.  Toys that are on springs, or suspended in some way are ideal for independent play.

For safety, always buy toys that are specially designed for cats, and don’t leave your cat playing unsupervised with a brand new toy.

Cat Activity Centre

Cats love to climb, claw and caper around in their environment.  They are never happier than when they have somewhere great to explore, except maybe when they have somewhere great to sleep! A cat activity centre is an ideal addition to any home where cats are kept, as it provides them with a multitude of areas to keep them happy and entertained.

Cat activity centres are usually designed with several levels, allowing your cat to jump, climb and explore.  Higher levels offer a place for your cat to sit and watch the world go by, satisfying the nosy parker that lives inside most cats! 

Tunnels are also a feature of many cat activity centres.  These may be soft and ideal for your cat to rustle around in, or structured, letting your cat try out his climbing skills.  Both types of tunnels provide exercise and amusement for your cat.

If your cat likes to find cosy spaces to curl up in, then look for a cat activity centre that includes a cubby hole designed to give your cat his own private space to sleep and rest away from the stresses of the world.

Most cat activity centres are made of sisal or carpet, which provides a complex scratching post for your cat.  Cats are naturally curious creatures so there shouldn´t be any trouble in encouraging your pet to play in his new adventure area.  The fact that he is allowed to scratch this new piece of furniture to his heart´s content will only make it even more appealing!

Try to choose a cat activity centre that will suit your cat.  If he likes to spend time perched in high places, then look for a cat activity centre that has some high levels.  If he loves to play with toys,  pick a cat activity centre that has some dangling play elements built in.  Or if he just likes to laze around, choose a cat activity centre that offers him a nice cosy place to sleep.  With so many varieties to choose from you are bound to find a cat activity centre that is perfect for your pet.