Ask A San Francisco Expert: Tips On What To Look For In Cat Toys
Cute fluffy kitten with toy (credit: Thinkstock)
By nature, cats are curious, often roaming around their domain in search of the next best play thing. While paper bags and cardboard boxes often do the trick, these everyday items are frequently overtaken by specialty stock purchased by eager owners who want the very best for their feline friends. But what to buy? After all, items of this nature are endless, waiting on shelves in all kinds of stores for furry friends to enjoy. So, how do you decide which items are right for your purring pet? Simply ask an expert, like San Francisco's Mark Klaiman.
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Expert Mark Klaiman proclaims "While cats are often described as solitary animals, playing with your cat is something for you to do together." He suggests that you choose a cat toy that is "as much fun for you as it is for your cat." After all, as this authority points out, "If you can't imagine you playing with the toy, then how will you get your cat get to play [with it]?"
Durability is key when choosing a cat toy. As San Francisco's Klaiman says, "Just like purchasing a toy for your human child, you want to get your money's worth out of any toy you buy for your cat." He adds, "Something that looks too fragile for everyday use by your cat [actually] won't get used on any day." So, for instance, if you are buying a cat tunnel, be sure that cat tunnel can withstand all kinds of wear and tear before you purchase this particular and very popular cat treat. Ask plenty of questions of the seller in order to determine what will work the best for your furry friends.
Stimulation comes into play whenever you consider which toy to buy for your own personal furball. "One of the key things about playing with your cat is using his or her natural instincts as part of the play," insists this expert, who explains, "Toys that allow your cat to hunt and pounce will both entertain your cat (and you) and will allow your cat to be a cat.
Mark relays, "Too often, cat toys focus only on visual stimulation." However, this isn't the only sense that is alluring to the feline community, according to Klaiman. As this authority reveals, "Your cat can be intrigued by sounds as well as sight." He suggests buying toys that are "as basic as balls with bells in them or crinkle toys, as well as elaborate electric toys that twerp like a bird when swatted."
"Cats are chewers, biters and tearers," points out this expert, who adds, "Toys that consist of lots of small parts that can be dislodged and easily swallowed should be avoided." Klaiman also says to keep track of all the toys your cats are using, including the older ones. He says, "Even the heartiest toys can fade over time, so inspect your cat's toys periodically for ware and tear." A final warning from Mark Klaiman: "When in doubt, throw it out -- and don't leave your cat alone with any toy."
