PET CARE: ASK THE EXPERTS WITH CODY
Pet Expert Reveals
Do's and Don'ts
of Playing with Cats
Article by Purina Animal Enrichment Specialist Alex Johnson
prefer just hearing your voice as they sit nearby.
DO reinforce positive behavior - Johnson recommends praising good behavior with treats like new Friskies Playfuls, uniquely shaped to roll so cats can have fun with their treats. For example, if they like to scratch furniture, redirect the behavior by giving them a toy or object that's acceptable to scratch.
DO provide mental stimulation - If your cat seems bored, Johnson suggests rotating toys or introducing new activities:
* Copycat: Mirror your cat's actions like you're playing Simon Says, batting Friskies Playfuls with them like you're playing catch. Seeing things from their perspective fuels interactive play, creating new ways to connect with your cat.
(BPT) - Play is instrumental for pets' overall health and physical well-being. However, many cat lovers may not realize that there are positive and negative ways to engage cats in play. "Positive play can lower pets' cortisol levels, influence brain development and help them gather information to understand boundaries and different ways of communicating," said Purina Animal Enrichment Specialist Alex Johnson. If you're craving new ways to interact with your cat, Johnson shares additional insights about the value of play, plus do's and don'ts to maximize your time together.
DO create routines - Cats anticipate what will happen at certain times of day. Try giving your cat 15 minutes of undivided attention at the same time every day, focusing on your cat's cues. Pet your cat and speak in a calm voice. Connection is the goal, but some cats