Play serves as a proxy for hunting in cats and is essential for welfare throughout their lives. Understanding play needs enables enrichment that prevents frustration and behavioral problems.
Play deprivation in cats causes welfare harm through behavioral frustration that commonly redirects to aggression toward people or other household pets. Cats that chase and bite moving feet, ambush humans from hiding, or show excessive predatory behavior toward other cats are often communicating an unmet play need rather than displaying aggression or bad character. The welfare solution is regular, high-quality interactive play sessions that complete the predatory sequence - ending with a catch and a food reward - rather than passive toys that don't engage the cat's movement-detection instincts. Play need persists throughout a cat's life; older cats simply need shorter, gentler sessions rather than no play at all.