Cats are fascinating animals with a rich repertoire of innate behaviors. From hunting to climbing, and scratching to grooming, these behaviors are ingrained in their instincts and play a crucial role in their physical and mental well-being. To help promote your cat’s overall health, you need to understand and encourage these instinctual behaviors in your feline companion. Our Oliver Animal Hospital team describes how you can help your cat express their natural behaviors for their happiness and well-being.

Understanding natural behaviors in cats

Before diving into the how of encouraging instinctual feline behaviors, you need to understand what they are and why they’re essential for your cat’s overall health. The domestic housecat is a descendant of the wildcat Felis silvestris lybica, which once roamed Africa and the Middle East. Cats were domesticated roughly 10,000 to 11,000 years ago, yet some of their ancestral traits remain. These instinctual behaviors include: 

  • Hunting — Cats are natural hunters because they are carnivores who once relied on eating rodents and other mammals to survive. Even if your cat has never set foot outside, their hunting instinct remains strong. Hunting behavior provides cats with mental stimulation and physical exercise. Indoor cats can benefit from interactive toys that mimic prey such as feather wands and stuffed mice. 
  • Climbing — To survey their environment, most cats enjoy climbing and perching in high places. Climbing is about finding an elevated cozy spot that also provides them with a sense of security since they can see everything around them. Cat trees or ledges installed at various heights can satisfy this instinct and provide exercise. 
  • Scratching — While you may rue the day your cat scratches your favorite sofa or chair, scratching is a natural and healthy feline habit. Scratching serves multiple purposes, including sharpening claws, stretching muscles, and marking territory. Providing appropriate scratching posts or pads will prevent your cat from damaging furniture while allowing them to fulfill this instinctual need. 
  • Grooming — Grooming is essential for all pets, but cats make it an art form. Felines are fastidious about their surroundings and are meticulous groomers, spending a significant portion of their day cleaning themselves. Grooming keeps their fur clean, helps regulate body temperature, and provides comfort. In addition, you can regularly brush your cat to help reduce hairballs and strengthen the bond you share with your whiskered pal.

Ways to encourage natural behaviors in your cat

Now that you are aware of these feline instinctual behaviors, you likely want to know how to encourage your cat to act on them at home. To elicit your whiskered friend’s natural behaviors, follow these tips:

  • Create a stimulating environment — By providing your cat with various toys, scratching posts, perches, and hiding spots, you help keep your whiskered pal engaged and satisfied. Rotating old toys with new ones can also prevent boredom and keep your cat entertained and enthusiastic. Let playtime begin! 
  • Simulate the great outdoors — Set up a window perch where your cat can observe birds and other wildlife. Bird and wildlife feeders placed outside near windows can provide entertainment and mental stimulation. In addition, consider using a leash and harness for your cat to investigate the backyard under your watchful eye. If your whiskered pal doesn’t take to leash walking, provide them with a catio, an enclosure for cats that you can move to different spots in the yard for safe, outdoor fun. 
  • Incorporate interactive play — Offer your cat toys that encourage natural behaviors such as stalking, chasing, and pouncing. These interactive toys provide exercise and strengthen the bond between you and your cat. 
  • Reward appropriate behavior — Give your cat treats or praise when they exhibit desired behaviors such as using a scratching post or participating in interactive play. Positive reinforcement helps affirm these good behaviors and encourages your whiskered pal to continue playing in a safe and nondestructive manner. 
  • Respect privacy — Cats need privacy because they are independent creatures and appreciate having their own space to feel secure and relaxed. Ensure your cat has quiet areas to which they can retreat when they need alone time. 

Understanding and encouraging your cat’s natural behaviors are vital to providing them with a fulfilling life. By offering your furry pal a stimulating environment, incorporating interactive play, and respecting their needs, you can help your cat physically and mentally thrive. If you would like more ideas on how to encourage your cat to engage in their instincts, give us a call at Oliver Animal Hospital.