Fetch has long been associated with dogs. This active game is so pleasing to dogs, as they’ve spent centuries domesticated to work with and for humans, many for retrieving purposes.

Cats have also been domesticated for a long time, not as workers like dogs but as companions. Although cats and dogs were domesticated for different historical roles, some cats can also learn to play games like fetch through positive reinforcement and repeated play. So, can cats be trained to play the same games as dogs, like fetch?

Do Cats Play Fetch?

Yes, cats can be trained to play fetch just like dogs. The game is slightly different for them, but the concept is the same. You’ll need to have a lot of patience and use positive reinforcement techniques, but it is possible to teach some cats to fetch.

How to Teach Your Cat to Play Fetch

Before you start, it’s important to understand how fetch works for dogs. Dogs are natural retrievers, and they love to please their owners. For a dog, fetch is all about bringing the ball back to you so you can throw it again.

Cats aren’t natural retrievers, and they don’t have the same instinct to please their owners that dogs do. This means that you’ll have to be a little more creative when teaching your cat to play fetch.

If your cat becomes frustrated or uninterested at any point, take a break and try again later. Like all training, progress will be made at different rates for each cat. Some may learn quickly, while others may need more time and patience. The most important thing is not to force your cat to do anything they don’t want to do and to make sure the experience is positive for both of you. Do this, and before you know it, your cat may begin engaging in fetch games similarly to some dogs.

Cats are much smarter than we give them credit for and can be trained to do all sorts of things, including playing fetch. So, if you want to play this fun game with your cat, have patience, use positive reinforcement, and enjoy spending some quality time with your feline friend.

Cat Breeds That Play Fetch

Let’s face it—a cat won’t do anything it doesn’t want to do. However, some cats are more likely to take to fetch than others, and these breeds are usually those that tend to be highly social, playful, or interactive with people.

While any cat can be trained to play fetch, these breeds tend to be more intelligent and seek out human companionship; therefore, they may be more motivated to engage in interactive games and training. So, if you’re looking for a feline friend with whom you can play this fun game, consider one of these breeds. Who knows? You might just have the next world’s greatest feline fetcher on your hands.

Games to Play With Your Cat

Interactive play, like fetch, is an excellent way to bond with your cat. It also provides much-needed mental and physical stimulation.

There are endless games you can play with your cat to keep them entertained and engaged. So get creative, have fun, and bond with your feline friend.

Looking for toys that will cater to the many needs of your cat? The Hepper Hi-lo Cat Scratcher is one of our favorite cat products, and it will encourage your cat to get active. Its clever three-angle design offers multiple ways for your cat to climb, stretch, and exercise. Made of a sturdy plywood base and a replacement cardboard insert, this scratcher is an option that cats can enjoy for years to come. If your cat requires a little encouragement for self-play, the Hepper Catnip Mice Toy Set is a fantastic choice for their instinctual needs. Made with natural, bite-resistant hessian fabric and filled with organic catnip. Cats can satisfy their natural prey instincts while getting the physical activity they need to thrive. 

Image	Product	Details
Great for Exercise	Hepper Hi-Lo Cat Scratcher	Multi-level play Promotes exercise Long-lasting material	Check Price
Encourages Self-Play	Hepper Catnip Mice Toy Set	Contains catnip Kitten safe Satisfies prey instinct	Check Price

At Catster, we've admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!

Conclusion

Whether your cat plays fetch really depends on their personality. Some breeds are more likely to take to the game than others, and even then, it’s not a guarantee. However, with patience, positive reinforcement, and some quality time spent together, you may just be able to teach your cat this fun trick.

• Related Read: How to Make Your Cat Smarter: 5 Tips for a Brainier Pet
  

Featured Image Credit: Nils Jacobi, Shutterstock