Play With Your Cat Outside

Cats are especially active outside; there is always something going on that may interest them. A cat could be lethargic and moody inside, whereas outside he or she could become energetic and playful. This article will show you how to play with your cat outside.

Steps

 * 1) Take some toys outside. String works best, although some cats may prefer playing with other toys. Approach your cat and offer him the toy. He will instantly notice it and become curious. Start moving the string/toy about and hopefully he should start playing.[[Image:Play With Your Cat Outside Step 1.jpg|center]]
 * 2) Try walking down to the bottom of your garden. Some (usually younger) cats will follow their owners down there, and others may even run! Your cat may enjoy chasing you around the garden, or even being chased themselves.[[Image:Play With Your Cat Outside Step 2.jpg|center]]
 * 3) Hide behind a bush. Soon enough your cat will start looking for you. When he approaches, step out behind the bush. Your cat will realise that you're playing a game with him, and will hopefully respond by running off, or batting you on the leg.[[Image:Play With Your Cat Outside Step 3.jpg|center]]
 * 4) Use something light, such as a feather or a piece of fluff. Blow it out of your hand, or let the wind carry it. Your cat will notice this, and should start running after it in a bid to catch it.[[Image:Play With Your Cat Outside Step 4.jpg|center]]
 * 5) If it's dry, lie down in the middle of your garden. Your cat will come over to see what you are doing. In this situation some cats will go and lie next to you or start batting you with his paws. Others might run around, trying to get your attention.[[Image:Play With Your Cat Outside Step 5.jpg|center]]
 * 6) If your cat climbs a tree, stand below it with your back to him and pretend to be looking for him. He should start batting your head or rubbing against it.[[Image:Play With Your Cat Outside Step 6.jpg|center]]
 * 7) Try climbing a tree yourself! Your cat may follow or look up at you with interest.[[Image:Play With Your Cat Outside Step 7.jpg|center]]
 * 8) Make a fuss of your cat when he does what you want him to do. Lots of stroking and a couple of treats generally help.[[Image:Play With Your Cat Outside Step 8.jpg|center]]

Tips

 * Some of these methods might not work on older cats. Don't give up, though - your cat may just be having an off day.
 * Persevere. Just because a certain method didn't work the first time doesn't mean that it won't work on another day! Your cat might think that it's too cold/sunny/hot/windy/wet to play.
 * To get your cat to follow, try calling to him to get him to come to you.

Warnings

 * Don't tease your cat too much. He might get frustrated or annoyed and lash out at you.
 * When climbing a tree, be careful not to climb too high. You could fall and seriously hurt yourself, or if your cat is following you, he might get stuck.
 * Be careful with what you use for toys. Some of this might be dangerous for your cat.

Things You'll Need

 * Toys for your cat - most products that you can buy at a pet shop will work well
 * String
 * Light objects that can be carried by the air, such as feathers or fluff