Swish, pause, pounce: give your cat a little play story

Swish... pause... pounce! A moving toy can be more interesting when it occasionally acts like something worth stalking.

Cats Protection's play guide describes play as a way for cats to express hunting behavior. A practical way to use that idea is to leave room for watching and approaching, instead of waving a toy constantly in your cat's face.

Clear a little floor space. With a suitable wand toy, try a small movement away from your cat, pause, and let them decide whether to approach. Give them chances to catch the toy. Follow their interest and stop when they disengage.

The official video below is a helpful starting point for seeing play in action. Open it on Cats Protection's own channel when you have a moment.

Stay with your cat during string or wand play, and put the toy away afterward. Avoid small detachable parts and let children use interactive toys with adult supervision. If a cat's usual behavior changes, your vet can help you work out what needs attention.

Which movement gets the best response in your home: the tiny twitch, the slow drag, or the dramatic disappearing act behind a cushion?