Cats love to play, just like dogs. Although it may seem vastly different from dogs, cats can show us signs letting us know they want to play.
Knowing how to read your cat’s body language is an excellent way to determine if your cat wants you to play with them. Some owners may be oblivious to their cat wanting playtime, but after reading this article, we hope you’ll be able to spot the typical signs.
Read on to learn the seven typical signs that show your cat wants you to play with them.
The 7 Signs Your Cat Wants You to Play With Them
1. Meowing
Meowing could mean many things, such as your cat being hungry or wanting the litter box cleaned. However, cats generally only meow at humans when they want just about anything; this includes wanting to play! If the tail is erected while meowing, then that’s a good indicator your cat may want to play. A sudden burst of energy that accompanies meowing also could mean that your cat wants to play.
2. Nudging, Pawing, or Pouncing
Every cat owner has experienced their cat rubbing their head against them or pawing at their hand. Pouncing is a way cats stalk their prey, but it could be a sign of wanting playtime if they pounce on your hand or a toy.
Cats like to bat at objects, especially toys if they’re in the mood to play. If your cat does this to your hand, they almost always want to play with you.
3. Showing Distracting Behavior
Cats have no problem getting your attention when they’re in the mood to play. We’re guessing that just about all cat owners reading this article can relate to their cat lying on the keyboard while trying to work or the cat knocking an object off the desk or counter to get attention!
If you see your cat trying to distract you in this manner, go ahead and grab your cat’s favorite toy and play for a few minutes. The little break will do you good!
4. Your Cat Is Staring at You
A long stare could mean your cat wants playtime. You should feel privileged that your cat is staring at you with casual blinking because that usually indicates a level of trust. It also likely means you have a bond with your cat, both of which are positive signs.
Staring is one of many ways cats get our attention, and staring could mean your cat wants to play. Staring may seem rude in our world, but in a cat’s world, it could mean they want your attention.
5. Following You
Another possible indicator of your cat wanting to play is if they are following you from room to room. Though cats may follow you for many reasons (for example, when they know it’s meal time), it may also be an indication of their willingness to play.
6. Showing Their Belly
A cat that rolls over and shows their belly means they’re likely keen to interact with you. Many cats do this when they’re in the mood for some cuddles, and a cuddle session may also be enhanced with some playtime.
7. Your Cat Brings You a Toy
You can’t get any more obvious than this one. If your cat brings you its favorite toy and starts batting and pouncing on it, your cat most definitely wants to play. Your cat may also get a sudden burst of energy and zoom around the house.
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Signs Your Cat Needs More Playtime
Now that we’ve established the seven signs showing your cat wants to play, signs exist that your cat may need more playtime. One sign is if your cat becomes more needy than normal.
Cats can be relatively low-key at times, but they still look for fun and exciting things to do. It is important to note that by nature, cats are not lazy, and a lazy cat that sleeps all the time is either unwell or bored. If your cat seems lazy, grab a toy, such as a feather teaser, and spend some quality time with your cat to see if they perk up.
Cats need mental stimulation, just like dogs, and interactive toys are a great way to provide stimulation to your cat. Mental stimulation keeps their minds sharp and gives them something to do.
Another possible sign is if your cat has become a bit chunkier than normal. In this case, it may mean your cat needs to burn more energy, and playing with your cat will help your cat lose unwanted weight. However, weight gain can be caused by many things, and if your cat’s weight is appearing overweight, your first point of contact should be your veterinarian.
Final Thoughts
Most cats enjoy playtime, and if your cat seems disinterested in play, it might be a sign that your pet is not feeling well. At other times, your cat might be subtly hinting that they want to play, and they do this in a number of ways. We’ve gone over some of the most common things to look for when your cat might be interested in some playtime.
Featured Image Credit: Dora Zett, Shutterstock
