A new study investigated how cats prefer to play – and found that they want to be in control of when, where and how they play. While that may not surprise literally anyone who’s ever met a cat, the study’s findings reveal how you could encourage your cat to play fetch.
The scientists found that cats initiated and ended games of fetch more frequently than their owners – and, when they initiated the game, played for longer than if their owners initiated it.
Surprisingly, the cats actually played for longer when their owner ended the games. Together, these results suggest that – while cats seem to control the game of fetch – they will play for as long as they’re allowed to.
Published in Scientific Reports, the study surveyed 924 cat owners who had cats that play fetch. Between them, these owners had observed fetching in 1,154 cats that they currently or previously owned.
The study found that cats that fetch usually have a preferred object they like to play fetch with. The study reported that, after toys, cats like to retrieve a variety of household objects (especially if mouse-sized). This ranged from hair-ties to bottle tops.
They generally also have a favourite household member they like to play fetch with, as well as a preferred location. Apparently, they particularly like bedrooms and staircases – according to study author Jemma Forman from the University of Sussex, “height differences make it more interesting for the cat”.
But why do some cats fetch at all?
The researchers speculate that fetching is similar to hunting behaviour but with the added element of inter-species social interaction (with the owner). This is not typically seen in cats, according to the researchers.
While mixed breed cats were more likely to play fetch, Siamese cats are the most likely to retrieve out of the purebreds.
If you’re not a professional pet trainer, don’t be disheartened. The study found that 94 per cent of the owners reported that their cats started fetching without being taught to. Cats are more likely to start when they’re young: 61 per cent of those in the study began when they were under 1 year old.
“I think the main takeaway message would be for owners to be open and receptive to their cat's needs and behaviours,” Forman told BBC Science Focus. “Their cat may already be communicating that they want to play at certain times but it can be difficult to tell!”
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