Why Won't Your Adult Cat Play?

Does your cat just sit there, looking at you, when you toss it a ball or dangle a string? You might be worried that your cat needs the stimulation and exercise from playing. Discover why your cat appears uninterested in play and what you can do about it.

Cats naturally show a range of personalities and activity levels. All kittens play, but their interest in high-energy games peaks around 4 to 5 months and declines afterward. As adults, cats generally fall into two categories: ankle-rubbers who continue to play and lap-sitters who prefer less activity. Encouraging activity is healthy for both the body and mind, but other factors may affect cat behaviors, which can be evaluated using the H.I.S.S. test.

HISS Test

Health

Health significantly affects activity levels. Age-related issues like arthritis can decrease interest in play. Any health challenge making the cat feel unwell, such as intestinal worms, might reduce the cat's activity.

Instinct

Cat play mimics hunting. Movement triggers paw-patting and chasing behaviors. Kittens enjoy self-play and can entertain themselves, having great fun with their cat toys and chasing human feet. However, adult cats need more direct stimulation. Cat toys are often only as engaging as the human using them.

Stress

Any kind of stress often caused by sudden changes, can impact a cat's activity level. Cats feeling overwhelmed by stress won't want to play.

Symptoms

Changes in your cat's usual behavior may indicate a health issue. If your cat usually enjoys playing but suddenly becomes inactive or lethargic, consult your veterinarian. A check-up might reveal a urinary tract infection or another treatable issue. If your cat is in good health, explore ways to stimulate play more effectively.

Encouraging Play

An adult cat has moved beyond the frantic play of kittenhood and may have the personality of a lap-sitter, not inclined to play on her own. Perhaps she enjoys her "kitty TV," watching you pretend to be a cat by playing games for her. Or, you might not have found the perfect toy for your cat yet.

You might have tried catnip toys, but not all cats react to catnip. About one-third of cats aren't interested. Fresh catnip, which is more potent, might engage a previously indifferent cat. Visit a pet store to purchase growing catnip, crush a leaf, and see if your cat reacts to the real thing. Catnip can vary in potency and become stale quickly. If you find potent catnip, store some toys in the bag to refresh them.

Toys need to move in an interesting way to catch your cat's attention. Try visiting a pet store or even a hobby shop to get a package of pheasant feathers, which cats can rarely resist. The feather can be "snaked" along the floor for your cat to chase or held overhead for her to grapple. Playing a game with a "disappearing" feather can excite some cats. Use an old shirt or pillow, and thread a long feather or piece of yarn, underneath, slowly pulling it so it "hides" right in front of her eyes. Your cat will try to grab it before the feather disappears.

Fishing pole lure toys captivate many cats. Instead of plain yarn, try the "Da Bird" toy with a fluttering feather that flies through the air. Pet stores offer these lures, along with feather wands called “cat teases” in diverse styles. Some feature bells, shiny mylar, rattles, and more to engage cats. Alternatively, you can try cheap thrills with homemade toys.