Understanding Your Cat's Play

A playful kitten with striking green eyes lies on a soft surface, surrounded by colorful toys.

The domestic cat is a natural-born hunter, carrying the instincts of its wild ancestors. Unlike pack animals, cats are solitary predators, relying on stealth and precision to catch their prey. For much of history, people kept cats not as cuddly companions but as skilled exterminators, controlling rodent populations. Only the most successful hunters thrived and passed on their genes, shaping the fierce little predators we share our homes with today. Since cats have undergone minimal selective breeding, their hunting instincts remain as sharp as ever.

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The Elements of the Hunt

They begin the hunt by stalking their prey, crouching low with their head stretched forward, eyes locked on the target. Moving in slow, deliberate steps, they inch closer, barely making a sound. As the cat nears its target, it freezes, muscles coiled like a loaded spring. Eyes locked, whiskers twitching, it holds perfectly still for just a heartbeat—then, in a flash, it launches forward. With a lightning-fast sprint and a powerful leap, the cat strikes with one or both front paws, aiming for a swift and decisive capture. The cat will then either eat their catch or toy with it. When a cat appears to "toy" with its prey, it's not just play—it's instinct in action. This behavior comes from a mix of caution and necessity: the cat must kill its target but also avoid injury in the process. If a cat continues batting at its prey even after the kill, it’s likely not driven by hunger but rather by lingering hunting instincts, keeping its skills sharp for the next chase.

Other Play Behaviors

If your cats are wrestling, chances are they’re just having fun. In multi-cat households, real tension usually leads to avoidance rather than prolonged physical contact. Instead of full-on tussles, cats in conflict rely on quick offensive or defensive moves—like a well-placed slap—to establish boundaries. Interestingly, researchers have noted that playful wrestling often includes frequent pauses, giving cats a chance to gauge each other’s interest and ensure the game doesn’t spiral into actual aggression.

As stated earlier, cats are born hunters, and chasing each other isn’t just about play—it’s instinct in action. While it helps sharpen their hunting skills, it also serves a surprising purpose: strengthening their social bonds. Contrary to popular belief, a game of chase isn’t always about competition; it’s often a sign of trust and companionship. When cats engage in playful pursuits, they’re not just burning energy—they’re communicating, building relationships, and reinforcing their connection in a fun and natural way.

Chasing isn’t just fun for cats—it’s also a great way for them to blow off steam. Just like humans turn to exercise to relieve stress, cats use playful chases to shake off tension and reset. It’s their way of releasing pent-up energy, staying active, and keeping their minds sharp, all while having a little fun in the process.

Tips for Facilitating Play with Your Cat

Short, frequent play sessions mirror a cat’s natural hunting rhythm, where bursts of action are followed by moments of rest. In addition, the more hungry a cat is, the more intense and prolonged the play becomes. This makes the time before meals an ideal time to have a play session.

Toys are a great way to channel their hunting/play energy in a way that won't destroy your sanity. Since cats are solitary hunters, their prey tends to be small. Small rolling balls, lures with small plushies on the end, and small plushies are great candidates for play time. In addition, research shows that cats engage more intensely and for longer periods with toys that resemble actual prey, like small mammals or birds.

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Understanding your cat’s play is not only essential for enriching their environment but also for building a stronger bond with your feline friend. By respecting their natural instincts and providing appropriate outlets for their energy, you can ensure a happier, more engaged cat. If you want to deepen your understanding of your cat’s needs, our virtual behavior consulting services can help. Reach out today to schedule a session and create a tailored plan for your cat’s well-being!

Sources

Is it normal for cats to chase each other. (2024, June 9). Vet Explains Pets. https://vetexplainspets.com/is-it-normal-for-cats-to-chase-each-other/#:~:text=It%27s%20a%20common%20sight%20for%20cat%20owners%20to,them%20to%20engage%20in%20this%20kind%20of%20activity.

International Cat Care. (2025, March 11). Understanding the hunting behaviour of cats. https://icatcare.org/articles/understanding-the-hunting-behaviour-of-cats

Hazel, S. & Henning, J. (2023, January 29). Why are your cats wrestling? Science reveals the answer. Interesting Engineering. https://interestingengineering.com/science/cats-wrestling-scientists-reveal-answers