You can’t force a cat into playing, but you can try different approaches to see what generates interest. If nothing else, my creative attempts amuse Felicity.

I keep a rotating array of toys on hand. Some of Felicity’s favourite toys that I’ve bought are: wand toys, balls with bells in them, catnip mice, and crinkly catnip things. Then there are also the toys I already have at home like wads of paper, straws, and plastic rings from milk or juice containers.

Put the toys away after playtime. If a toy is always out, it becomes boring and unrealistic to Felicity, like a mouse that never goes away. I also rotate the toys on hand.

Let her win. I don’t make it too easy; let your cat enjoy the pursuit. But when she comes in for the Big Pounce, let her score a direct hit and savour the thrill of victory.

Your Assignment

One play session a day for 15 minutes.