Top Cat Toys to Leave Your Trusty Tails Pet Sitter

Some people say that cats are lazy and they only need a pet sitter to come in and feed the little fur ball. That is a common misconception! It is true that cats sleep a lot. This is a natural behavior adapted from their days as wild cats. They sleep to preserve their energy for hunting prey but now they have no prey, or so it seems. Cats need to exercise to fulfill that natural instinct to hunt. You can help your cat fulfill this need by setting aside dedicated playtime each day. Read on to learn about a few toys that will engage your cat and keep him on the move!

1. DVDs– What? DVDs are not toys! You might be thinking this and well, you’re right. However, there are DVDs that are made with your kitty in mind. These DVDs can provide visual entertainment that will keep your cat engaged. They feature chirping birds and other animals. It is a feast for your cat’s eyes! He’ll thank you for it!
2. Dangling Toys – Any toy, especially those wrapped in feathers and fur, attached to a long stick and string can provide a great time for all. This kind of toy is so intriguing for cats. As you twirl it around your cat will jump, pounce and paw at the toy bringing out that natural instinct to get his prey!
3. Laser Pointer – A laser pointer will keep your cat running back and forth trying to catch that beam of light. He’s sure to get completely tuckered out! Just be sure the person pointing the laser knows not to point it directly into kitty’s eyes. That’s dangerous!
4. Crinkle balls – Cats sure do love the crinkle sound of foil. You can buy these at any pet store.  Your cat will chase this on his own but you or your pet sitter might want to stick around in case it rolls under the china cabinet.
5. Cat Cubes– Cats love to hid, especially when they’re gearing up to pounce on their prey! Your cat will love being inside the cube as you tape the outside or drag your finger along. It will tease him and he’ll get to act out his dream come true of preparing for an attack! Tossing a toy or dangling something in front of the entrance of the cube will definitely intrigue the cat.
6. Mice-Toy mice are fantastic attention-getters. They’re similar to the dangling toys and crinkle balls. It just depends on your cats preference. These toy mice also come wrapped in feathers, fur, felt and sometimes have cat nip inside which will certainly double your cat’s pleasure but keep note, cat nip may cause your cat to get over excited or even agitated.
7. For the cost conscious pet parent – You can make some of these toys at home. Get creative! Some cats prefer the homemade toys opposed to the store bought. Have you ever seen a cat inside of a brown paper bag or a box? Give it a try! Also, most people have string and tin foil at home in their cupboards. Make your own crinkle ball or dangling toy! A simple string being trailed across the floor will give your cat many minutes of kitty exercise and enjoyment.

As with all toys, supervise your cat and make sure any toy you leave out while you’re gone is completely safe. You’d be surprised at what your cat could do with a simple toy. If you have any questions about what toys to leave out for the pet sitter or even what toys you should use, give us a call at Trusty Tails!

What’s your cat’s favorite toy? Comment below and let us know!