Even the laziest-looking house cat is a hunter at heart. When that instinct has nowhere to go, it often comes out as night-time zoomies, attacking your ankles, or knocking things off shelves.
How much play does a cat need?
Most indoor cats do well with two or three play sessions a day of about 10–15 minutes. Young cats usually need more; senior cats may prefer shorter, gentler sessions.
Play like prey: hunt → catch → eat → sleep
- Hunt: move the toy like real prey — let it hide behind furniture, freeze, then dart away. Moving the toy away from your cat is more exciting than waving it in their face.
- Catch: let your cat actually catch the toy several times. Never-ending chasing with no catch can be frustrating.
- Eat: end the session with a meal or a treat — just like a successful hunt.
- Sleep: a satisfied cat grooms and naps. Play before bedtime can mean a quieter night.
Smart toy tips
- Rotate toys every few days so they stay exciting.
- Laser pointers: fun, but always finish by letting your cat catch a real toy.
- Interactive toys that move or make sounds when touched keep cats busy while you're busy.
- Safety first: put away toys with strings, feathers or small parts when you can't supervise, and replace damaged toys.
Note: a sudden change in energy, appetite or behaviour can be a sign your cat is unwell — check with your vet.
