Cat Toys And Extras

Play for a young cat is just as essential for its well being as it is for a human child. It is particularly important for the owner to play with the cat is it is the only one in the household.

Through play, muscles are exercised and conditioned; the brain is kept alert and the eyes bright. And if the owner joins in, it strengthens the bond between the feline and its adopted human family.

At the very least your cat should have a scratching post, which it can be encouraged to use instead of the furniture and soft furnishings. A cat will naturally use surfaces such as the bark of a tree to sharpen and control the length of its claw, they are its main means of defense, and also provide grip when climbing.

You can make an indoor scratching post yourself by binding a stout fence post with heavy duty sisal string or cotton rope, and attaching it to a suitable base.

A strip of old carpet is an alternative, but this is not as effective for the cat, as it frays quickly, creates a great deal of fluff, and needs to be renewed regularly.

If you do not mind your cat equipment taking over the home, feline climbing frames of varying size and complexity are readily available. Some are over 6 feet high, with circular supports covered in sisal rope, carpet covered perches, houses and barrels.

They are likely to be found at cat shows, or through advertisements in specialist cat magazines and larger pet stores. A Burmese is attracted to the outside world.

Some cats are freedom loving and do not like being kept indoors. A ginger kitten has taken over the best armchair. An indoor cat needs plenty of toys and active input from its owner if it is not to become bored and substitute the upholstery for a tree.

A Persian has the comfort loving temperament suited to an indoor life, and its long coat is easier to care for inside.