Play fighting with your cat is not only a great way to keep them entertained and exercised, but it can also help strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend. However, it’s a way to have fun for cat owners as well! But before you start to play fighting with your cat, there are a few things you need to know to do it safely.
How to Play Fight With your Cat
The best way to initiate a play fight with your cat is to use your body language and movements. Start by crouching down low to the ground and making yourself small. This will help your cat feel more comfortable and less threatened. And then, start slow by waving a toy around or lightly tapping your hands on the ground. If your cat starts to stalk or pounce at the toy, then you know they’re ready to play!
When you are planning to start playing, you have to remember to keep your movements very gentle. If your cat gets too rough, simply walk away and take a break. Cats will often get too excited when playing and may accidentally scratch or bite, so it’s important to be careful.
And some moments when you’re ready to end the play fight, simply walk away and ignore your cat for a few minutes. They will eventually get the message and settle down.
Also Read: Why Do Cats Lick Their Paws And Rub Their Ears?
Benefits of Play Fighting with Cat
It’s no secret that cats love to play. Whether they’re chasing a toy or stalking prey, they love to get exercise. But did you know that playing fighting with your cat can also be beneficial?
Here are some of the benefits of play fighting with your cat:
1. Helps Them Release Pent-up Energy
If your cat is feeling cooped up or has a lot of energy to burn, play fighting can be a great outlet. It’s a way for them to release all that built-up energy in a safe and controlled environment.
2. Strengthens the Bond Between Owner and Cat
Playing together is a great way to strengthen the bond between you and your cat. It’s a fun way to interact and spend time together. Plus, it’s a great way to show your cat how much you love them.
3. Keeps Cat Fit and Healthy
Just like people, cats need to exercise to stay healthy. Play fighting is a great way for them to get exercise. It’s also a great way to keep their muscles toned and their reflexes sharp.
4. Keep Them Stay Mentally Stimulated
Cats need mental stimulation just as much as they need physical activity. Play fighting helps them stay mentally sharp and engaged. It’s a great way to keep their minds active and healthy.
5. Relieve Stress
Sometimes, cats can get stressed out. Whether it’s from a big change in their environment or just everyday life, play fighting can help them relieve that stress. It’s a great way to let them blow off some steam and relax.
7. Helps to Avoid Boredom
Boredom can be a big problem for cats. If they don’t have anything to do, they can become restless and destructive. Play fighting is a great way to keep them entertained and avoid boredom.
8. Socialize Themself
Play fighting is also a great way for cats to socialize. If you have more than one cat, it’s a great way for them to interact and play together. It’s also a great way to introduce a new cat to your home.
9. Burn Calories
Cats need to burn calories just like people do. Play fighting is a great way for them to do that. It’s a fun way for them to get exercise and stay healthy.
10. Makes Time Enjoyable for Both the Cat and the Owner
At the end of the day, play fighting with your cat is just to have fun. It’s a great way to spend time together and enjoy each other’s company. Plus, it’s a great way to bond and builds a strong relationship.
Overall, play fighting with your cat can be a great way to bond, stay fit and healthy, and relieve stress. So, the next time your cat is feeling frisky, get down on their level and have some fun!
Some Common Mistakes People Make When Play Fighting With Their Cats
There are so many positive sides to playing fight with cat but if it is not done properly it can put a major impact on a cat’s behavior. So, it is important to play with cats very often and gently. Let’s see some most common mistakes that owners do when playing with cats.
1. Hitting Cats
One of the most common mistakes people makes when play fighting with their cats is getting too rough. Remember, cats are not as strong as we are, and they can easily get hurt if we’re not careful. It’s important to keep your movements and gestures light and gentle, with no swatting or hitting! If your cat gets too rough, simply walk away and take a break.
2. Not Paying Attention to Cat’s Body Language
Another common mistake is not paying attention to your cat’s body language. If your cat starts to hiss, growl, or bare its teeth, then it’s time to stop playing. Cats will often get too excited when playing and may accidentally scratch or bite, so it’s important to be aware of their body language and know when to back off.
3. Not Playing Properly
Some people make the mistake of not ending the play fight properly. When you’re ready to stop playing, simply walk away and ignore your cat for a few minutes. They will eventually get the message and settle down.
4. Not Being Consistent
Another common mistake is not being consistent with the rules of play. It’s important to be consistent with your cat so they know what to expect. For example, if you allow them to bite and scratch during play one day, but then punish them for it the next day, they will be confused and may become hesitant to play with you.
5. Playing Gap
Finally, some people make the mistake of not playing with their cats often enough. Play fighting is a great way to keep your cat entertained and exercised, but it’s important to do it on a regular basis. If you only play with your cat once in a while, they may become bored or restless.
Bonus Tips for Playing Fight with Cat
To make your playing time enjoyable and safe for both, there are some tips that you can follow. Let’s see,
1. Use Your Hands Instead of Toys
While your cat may love their stuffed mouse toy, your hands are a much safer option for play fighting. This way, you can avoid any potential accidents if your cat gets too excited and accidentally bites or scratches you with its claws.
2. Keep Your Nails Short
It’s important to keep your own nails trimmed short when play fighting with your cat. This will help avoid any accidental scratches on your part.
3. Let Your Cat Win
One of the most important rules of play fighting with your cat is to let them win. This may seem counterintuitive, but it’s important to let your cat feel like the predator in the situation. If you’re constantly winning, your cat may become frustrated and could start taking their aggression out on you for real.
4. Be Aware of Your Cat’s Body Language
Pay attention to your cat’s body language during play fighting. If they start to get too rough or their tail starts lashing, it’s time to stop. And also, be sure to give your cat a break every now and then to avoid overstimulation.
5. Use Positive Reinforcement
Like with any type of training, it’s important to use positive reinforcement when play fighting with your cat. This means rewarding them with treats, petting, or verbal praise when they do something you want. This will help them understand that they’re doing something right and will encourage them to keep it up.
By following these simple tips, you can safely and enjoyably play fight with your cat. So get out there and have some fun with your furry friend!
Also Read: How Much Fancy Feast To Feed Cat
Ending Lines
So if you want to play fight with your cat, just remember to keep it safe, consistent, and regular! By following these simple tips, you can avoid common mistakes and make sure that both you and your cat have a great time play fighting!
Hello, this is Frank Swanson, the owner, and operator of Pet Info Hut. I created this website as a way to share my love of pets with the world. I have over 7 years of experience working with animals, and I have a passion for helping people care for their pets. I hope that you find my website useful and informative. Thanks for visiting!
