The simplest cat game you'll both love

You might have stumbled onto this post because you have a bored cat. You also probably have a busy life and the moment you want to relax, your cat is on every counter, meowing, pawing at you or knocking items off. Cats can't tell you verbally what they want like people can, so when they want something, they will let you know in other ways but I'll make another post about that whole topic another time.

Even though this game I'm talking about can't fully replace other types of play, it is such a great and simple game.

The game: It's what I like to call the 'treat toss' game.

All you need is: A cat, treats and the longest area in your home (such as a hallway).

How to play: Use healthy, low calorie treats if possible. OR if your cats on a diet or you've exceeded their treat intake for the day, you can use dinner time to your benefit. Grab a few pieces of their hard food before giving them the rest of their dinner. Choose a hallway or another open spacious area for running. Toss one treat at a time for your cat to chase down. Feel free to walk to different parts of the room/hallway and toss in the opposite directions so it stays fresh and unpredictable. 5-10 minutes of this play is ideal.

You might be saying.. "umm, that sounds stupid" or "How is this even beneficial?"

1. Mental Stimulation

   Cats have a natural instinct to hunt. It's ingrained in them. This allows your cat to get those urges out, while also using their senses. Sniffing, pouncing and more. It makes them think and react which helps keep their minds sharp and engaged.

2. Physical Exercise

   This is so great if you have a food motivated cat that might be on the heavier side. It gets them moving with very little effort. If you're new to this game, or if your cat is on the lazy side, it'll be best if you start with shorter distances and allow them to get used to what's going on and then gradually toss farther away. Cats sure love to nap but this will help them manage weight even if your cat's a good size at the moment.

3. Confidence

   If your cat is more on the timid side, keeping short distances and then slowly getting farther is great as well. Show your cat that moving to places they don't go to often or at all isn't a scary thing. Please keep in mind, never force your cat into areas they have any fear for. Slow and steady wins the race. This also doesn't replace the '3-3-3 rule', so if your cat is moving into a new place or is coming back to your home after a long duration, do not use games like this and 'hope for the best'. I will make a separate post about the '3-3-3 rule' and the dos and don'ts of cat introductions.

4. Redirects unwanted behaviour

   Your cat is on all the counters, knocking stuff over, or being extra 'dramatic'. This isn't a bad cat, this is a bored cat. A cat trying to tell you in its own way that it needs something to do. Treat tossing redirects that energy away from the things you don't want them to do. They get to hunt in a more productive and healthy way.

5. Strengthens your bond

   Cats are known for being very independent but they also benefit from their human connections. Whether your cat is already confident, or is more shy, this game involves both you and your cat so you both get to bond with each other. Your cat is building positive associations with you and that connection grows.

   
   

My cat (and pawtner in crime) Pepper absolutely loves this game. I touch the treat bin and he's already getting in his hunting position. So, I hope you too can benefit from this simple yet awesome little game. There's also so many things you can incorporate in it such as training, tossing treats in higher places such as their cat trees, and more. Have fun with it!

Once your cat gets used to the game, you can toss more than one at a time in different areas of the room and watch your cat sniff them out.

TL;DR

Treat toss game - Tossing treats (or kibble) down the hallway for about 5-10 minutes at a time isn't just fun, it helps your cat stay fit, sharp and happy! It gives them mental stimulation, physical activity and strengthens your bond with them.