Cat games are one of the coolest and most fun ways to keep your indoor cat active. Of course, it’s safest to keep your kitty indoors instead of letting him roam free outside, but that doesn’t mean you should let him live the life of a couch potato.

There are plenty of simple and fun ways to help keep your cat on his toes so he can maintain his mental and physical fitness, even if he’s inside. Just remember to consult your vet before introducing a new exercise program.

Cats tend to have short bursts of energy between their snoozes, so be ready to take advantage of
those times. Here are Vetstreet’s favorite cat games and more to keep your indoor cat active, spry, and happy at any age.

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Cat Games and Toys

Invest in some toys for your cat to chase, like feathers attached to a stick, “fishing poles,” balls or little “mice” filled with catnip. Not all cats respond to catnip, but when they do, it’s a treat to watch. Some toys even allow your cat to play when you’re not there, like food puzzles that make him work to get to the treats. Of course, never leave your cat alone with toys that can be chewed apart or accidentally swallowed.

Cat toys come in a variety of types and styles. Like kids, cats have likes and dislikes. Some categories of cat toys to consider are:

Invest in a Cat Tree

Cat furniture, perching posts and scratching posts provide a place for cats to sharpen those claws and are also fun places for them to do one of the things they do best: climb.

Not all cat trees are the same. Stability is essential, as the cat tree must be sturdy enough for leaping, climbing, jumping, and scratching. Here are Vetstreet’s favorite cat trees.

Try a Laser Pointer

Many cats love chasing a laser, and it’s a great way to give them a workout while tapping into their hunting instinct. You can vary the speed that the dot moves and entice your cat to run, jump and pounce. The important thing is to remember to let her “win” by switching toys and letting your cat catch something, writes Dr. Marty Becker. Otherwise, the cat may get worked up without ever having a resolution, since there’s nothing actually there when the cat catches the red dot.

As a rule of thumb, never point the laser in or at your cat’s eyes, as this can damage her vision. Don’t allow your cat to become obsessive about “catching” the laser. Limit the laser play sessions to short bursts of 5 to 10 minutes.

Play Hide and Seek

Just like with kids, often the best toys for cats are those that you can find around the house. Cats can have a ton of fun with a paper bag and some tissue paper (just remember to cut the handles off the bag so your cat doesn’t get his head caught in them). They’ll love both the noise and the potential for hiding spots.

Train Your Cat To Walk on a Leash

Your dog might not be the only one who likes going for walks. Some cats can be trained to walk on a leash, too. It’s a great way for your feline to explore the outdoors while avoiding dangers like getting lost, being attacked by a predator or getting hit by a car. Cats who are calm and easy-going tend to make the best candidates for using a leash.

Here’s how to train your cat to walk on a leash.

More Cat Fun

Don’t stop now, check out these other fun activities with your cat:

Cute Cat Squishmallows for Fun

Collar Cameras for a Pet’s Eye View

Feline Fun with Cat Tunnels