Asger Risom
Beyond the obvious fun, consistent playtime offers essential bonding, mental enrichment, and behavioral benefits for both you and your furry friend. Here’s why every moment of play counts.
Beyond the obvious fun, consistent playtime offers essential bonding, mental enrichment, and behavioral benefits for both you and your furry friend. Here’s why every moment of play counts.
Better Behavior Through Structured Play
Mischief often stems from boredom or anxiety in pets. A consistent play routine offers a healthy outlet and helps pets thrive emotionally.
Self-rewarding behaviour
According to animal behaviorist Amy Shojai, play is “self-rewarding,” meaning it feels good and reinforces itself without treats. It also helps your pet see you as a source of joy, reinforcing trust and companionship.
A Playtime A Day
About 30 minutes a day can work wonders, with more tailored sessions for active breeds.
Keep It Fresh with Rotated Toys
Variety keeps pets mentally stimulated. Try rotating their toy selection or hiding favorites in different rooms to encourage exploration.
Spice It Up
Shojai suggests revitalizing toys with catnip for felines or a stinky treat like dried salmon for dogs. Even your usual couch-time can become engaging with a few novel or rediscovered toys.
Make Meals a Game
Interactive feeding tools like puzzle toys and snuffle mats engage your pet’s foraging instincts. Shojai notes that cats are natural grazers and benefit from food being scattered or hidden in various spots.
The Hunt Is On
For reluctant learners, placing small meals on paper plates around the house encourages “hunting” behavior and adds gentle exercise to their day.
Play Doesn’t Have to Cost a Thing
Fun with your pet doesn’t require fancy gear. Shojai’s cat loves towel surfing, and her dog enjoys a DIY fishing pole toy. Games like fetch, scent training, or hide-and-seek are engaging and often free. These activities promote mental sharpness and physical agility without breaking the bank.
Outdoor Senses, Indoor Smiles
Whether it’s a backyard romp or a box filled with leaves, outdoor elements engage pets in unique ways. Shojai reminds us that even stillness can be play for cats—watching movement is enriching, especially for seniors.
Stimulate And Build Confidence
Sensory play helps reduce stress, build confidence, and contributes to overall well-being.