Last Updated: 17/02/2026
Games for Your Cat
Wondering how to play games with your cat? Check out our guide to making playing fun with your cat and which toys will catch their interest.
Author: Dr Teagan Lever BVSc (Hons)
Reading Time: 1 minute - quick read
Do you want to improve your relationship with your cat?
Playtime is a great way to not only strengthen the bond between you and your feline friend, but it also keeps them physically and mentally active. Playtime is especially important during the cooler months when our feline friends tend to be less active so try and set aside 10-15 minutes twice a day.
In this article
Fetch
Most cats will chase a small toy if thrown across the room or even up and down the stairs. Some will even pick them up and carry them back to you!
Pick out something small enough for your cat to carry, fluffy toys or ones with feathers will help to pique your cat or kitten's interest. Try the Gigwi Catnip Mouse or the Paws for Life Fluffy Balls.
Teasers
Movement is a great way to stimulate your cat's desire to play. Teasing 'wand' type toys with a toy attached to a string allow you to whip your cat up into a frenzy without risking your hands and arms to excited claws.
Use random movements to keep your cat interested, make her think she's almost got the toy before you whisk it away again. Try the Kazoo Bluebird Wand Cat Toy or the Catsentials Metallic Fish Teaser.
Interactive Toys
Stimulate your cat's natural hunting instincts with puzzles, snuffle mats, lick mats and electronic interactive toys. They are a great way to keep your cat occupied and active while you aren't home to play with them one on one. Just be sure to rotate them often to keep your cat from getting bored.
Wrestling & Kicking
Some cats just love to kick their toys with their back legs! This is a defensive fighting move that they use when wrestling and play-fighting with other cats. Soft toys are perfect for cats that like to 'bunny-kick' their prey, plus if added catnip also helps to put them in a playful mood.
Even scheduling in just 5 to 10 minutes of play every day with your feline friend will help to strengthen your bond, reduce feelings of boredom or frustration and keep them physically and mentally fit!
Articles recommended for you
Our vet authored guide to the benefits of feeding your dog fresh food plus tips and advice for introducing it into their regular menu.
See our guide to protecting your pet from parasites from our vet team.
Thinking of getting a fish? Check out our guide for setting up a tank and home care tips!
Looking to understand horse feeds better? This comprehensive guide covers feeding recommendations for horses of all ages and disciplines.
Does your pet suffer from anxiety? Check out our Vet-guide for treatment options to help your pet.
History
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space and we update our articles when new information becomes available.
Mon Feb 16 2026
Edited by Dr Angie Armstrong BVScDr Teagan Lever BVSc (Hons)
Head Veterinarian, BVSc (Hons)
Pet Circle's Head Veterinarian, Dr Teagan graduated from the University of Queensland in 2010 and went on to work in small animal and mixed practice in various locations around QLD & ACT before joining Pet Circle in early 2016. Dr Teagan has special interests in dermatology, nutrition and preventative health care. She feels privileged to witness the special bond people share with their pets on a daily basis and enjoys forming lasting relationships with pet parents and their fur children.
