Play is a fundamental welfare need for cats of all ages, and inadequate opportunities for play and predatory behaviour expression are linked to obesity, anxiety, and behavioural problems.
Cat play welfare reflects the fundamental tension between domestic cats' carnivore behavioural repertoire and typical indoor living conditions. Without appropriate play outlets, cats may redirect predatory behaviour toward owners, become lethargic and overweight, or develop anxiety-related conditions. Interactive play that engages the full predatory sequence - stalk, pounce, catch, kill - is particularly valuable. Allowing play to end with a 'successful catch' using a prey-like toy prevents frustration. Environmental enrichment including window perches, hiding places, and vertical climbing space extends the welfare benefits of play provision and meets cats' complex environmental needs.