The behavioral expression of ‘play’ has been defined in many ways as its importance is undeniable. Just as Jack Torrence found that, ‘all work & no play makes Jack a dull boy,’ so too is it imperative to see to & cultivate this aspect within ourselves & the cats in our lives.
In this video we incorporate 3 factors that we find to set our own play sessions up for success. These factors include:
1) the arrangement & setup of session, including if variations are added to the environment from session to session. How can the environment be more engaging & exciting?
2) the sound that the toy produces as its brushes against & contacts the objects in the environment, along with the way you create this music of play. How can the toy sound more like a foraging bird or rodent?
3) the motion of the toy in navigating the environment as if it were a fleeing creature being hunted. How can the toy seem more realistic?
In considering these factors & setting the stage for such interactions, play encourages species appropriate behavior that mimics the same patterns observed in cats when hunting. Play serves as a function of maintaining physical & behavioral health, while building trust & relationality between human & feline & getting a chance to bring out the individual preferences & personalities of the cats in our lives.
Three excellent resources to explore both the scientific basis & practical application include: the current (& upcoming work) of @mikel.delgado, Total Cat Mojo @thecatdaddy & The Behavior of the Domestic Cat (2nd Ed.).
What do you find sets your own play sessions on for success? Comment below! 😺👇
26 май 2024
