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Health & Fitness

Bored Cat Syndrome: Cats Need Playtime Too

Cats need playtime, too! Learn about how to provide safe, healthy and interactive indoor playtime for your feline friends.

Did you know that cats are the most popular pets in the United States? Almost 35 million American households have a cat, and half of those have more than one cat.

Unfortunately, cats are also the most likely pet to die prematurely. Why? The number one killer of cats is the great outdoors. Cats who are allowed outside often fall victim to automobiles, dogs, and mean people. Cats allowed outdoors may also be picked up by local animal control officers, and national statistics show that only 5 percent of owned cats entering shelters are reunited with their families.

Cats don't need to go outside to be happy! In fact, we strongly advise against letting your cats outside. So, it's up to you to help your cats avoid "bored cat syndrome." Sounds like a silly, made-up condition, but cats who are bored are more prone to obesity and may develop behavioral issues.

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First things first - cats love to climb! Watching the world from high perches is natural for cats, and climbing provides great exercise. Give your cat vertical space with tall cat trees, window perches or more elaborate climbing spaces. (Stop by our cat adoption room for ideas!)  

Cats also love to hunt, so give your cat interactive toys that encourage stalking and pouncing, natural hunting behaviors. Think about the toys as prey - how they move, where they are, what happens when the cat catches the prey. And always give your cat a chance to "win." It's no fun to stalk and pounce with no reward at the end. 

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Cats who live indoors with active playtime generally live much longer, much happier, and much healthier lives than cats who go outside or cats who are just couch potatoes. 

Need ideas to enrich your cat's life? Give us a call or email, or stop by and let us help your cat avoid bored cat syndrome. 

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