Pets offer great entertainment during playtime, but this isn’t the only thing that it does. There are many benefits that your pet enjoys during this period. You may see a cute cuddly kitten attempting to dig into a toy mouse, but what they’re experiencing is much-needed stimulation. They need to release some of that natural predator instinct. We shouldn’t stray too far away from our nature, as we become stagnant and unhappy. It’s the same thing for tamed animals. Let them be wild and free, even if it’s just chasing a tennis ball. Now, let’s dive into some of the great benefits that come from playtime.
1. Improves Behavior
We all know how mischievous and “annoying” animals can get when they’re bored. They dig into the pantry and rip apart our clothes and furniture. It’s easy to get mad at them, but they’re only trying to release some pent up energy.
You can help them release energy by playing with them more often. Take them on that morning jog or dangle a toy mouse in front of their nose. Even offering attention will improve their behavior.
2. Increase Stimulation
Just like us, our pets can get bored with the same old routine and toys. This can mean more sleeping and an increase in weight (sounds familiar, right?) A schedule is good to have, but mixing it up once in a while will keep their interest piqued.
Try rotating toys every few days. Sprinkle some catnip over the old toys to “refresh” them. Dogs are known for destroying every toy they get, so supply them with tough, new ones to abolish. It will prevent them from destroying your shoes instead. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise.
3. Brings Out The Hunter
When you’re cuddled up in bed with your cat, you may forget that that little creature is a natural predator. Their natural instincts need to be fed and that means…well feeding them.
Cats are intermittent feeders, which means that they eat small amounts five to ten times per day (mouse size meals). Leave out their bowl so they can dictate their meal time. Puzzle feeders have been known to stimulate both cats and dogs. When in doubt, encourage that hunter with food.
4. Cost-Effective Entertainment
Pets need toys for stimulation, but as you well know, they’ll use your own supplies for their entertainment as well. You don’t have to spend hundreds of dollars just to entertain your pet. Get creative and spend time with them. You’ll know what they like after a few moments together.
That cardboard box will provide hours of play time (and naps) for your kitties. Lots of dogs love to surf on towels as you drag it behind you. Play hide-and-seek with your pup. He’ll love sniffing you out. Magic tricks are always fun, as the dog tries to understand what you did.
5. Freeing
What does your pet want most? To be free. Now, for their safety, you can’t always let them roam without a leash or keep them at your side in the store. However, you can take them outside often and let them be themselves—wild animals.
Bring the outdoors inside if you don’t have an adventurous cat. Fill a box with leaves and let them sniff and dig through it. Your dog will love running down the beach and chasing the waves. We may forget to break up our sedentary lives, but never forget to do it for your pets.
6. Cements Your Bond
Animals are so much smarter than we give them credit for. They know who to trust and who doesn’t deserve it. Survival is one thing, but if they could choose between you and another, make sure they choose you. This means treating them with respect and love.
Offering them all of these options, will only cement your bond. Most of these activities require your involvement, too. Be a part of their lives, as they’re not simply a decoration in your home. Their lives are short compared to our own. Make the most of every second you have with them.
Are you rushing to the pet store with Spot right now? Let him pick out his new toys, and spend time sniffing the other animals that have yet to be adopted. Enjoy chasing the leaves outside in the parking lot. Lay on the grassy hill together in the park. Before bed, snuggle up with your (hopefully bathed) pooch and tell him how much you love him. Animals may not understand all of your words, but they certainly understand the meaning behind them.
