Many people associate fetching with dogs, but cats can also engage in this playful behavior. While it might seem surprising, some felines readily pick up on fetching, often initiating the game themselves. This ability highlights the diverse range of behaviors cats exhibit and their capacity for interactive play with their human companions.
The Reality of Feline Fetching
Cats play fetch, a behavior observed in many domestic felines, though not all. Studies show that over 40 percent of cats play fetch, though less frequently than dogs. This activity often arises spontaneously, with 94 percent of fetching cats initiating the behavior without formal training.
Unlike dogs, who often fetch on human terms, fetching felines tend to dictate when the game begins and ends. This self-directed play includes retrieving various items, from typical cat toys to household objects like crumpled paper, hair ties, and even bottle caps. This behavior, even without explicit training, suggests an inherent predisposition within some cats for this type of interactive play.
Why Cats Engage in Fetching
Several factors contribute to why a cat might engage in fetching, with predatory instinct being a prominent one. Cats are natural stalk-and-rush hunters, and fetching mimics the sequence of locating, capturing, and carrying prey. This play helps them hone their innate hunting skills, providing mental and physical stimulation even for well-fed indoor cats.
Beyond instinct, a desire for interactive play and seeking attention from their human companions also motivates fetching. Cats are social animals, and fetching offers an opportunity for shared activity, reinforcing positive interactions. When a cat brings back a toy, it can be a bid for praise, deepening the human-cat relationship. Certain breeds, often noted for their intelligence and desire for human companionship, also show a higher propensity for fetching, including Siamese, Burmese, Bengal, Manx, Peterbald, Sphynx, Devon Rexes, Oriental Shorthairs, Highlanders, Maine Coons, and Abyssinians.
Teaching Your Cat to Fetch
Teaching a cat to fetch involves patience and positive reinforcement, as cats respond well to rewards. Begin by selecting a lightweight toy that your cat already enjoys and can easily carry in their mouth, such as a small ball or crumpled paper. Consider rubbing it with catnip to increase its appeal.
Start by tossing the toy a very short distance, perhaps a foot or two away. When your cat chases it and picks it up, immediately offer praise and a small, tasty treat. Gradually encourage retrieval by calling your cat back to you with the toy and rewarding them. Keep training sessions brief, around 10 minutes, and end on a positive note to maintain your cat’s interest and prevent frustration. Every cat learns at its own pace, so consistency and making the activity fun are more important than rapid progress.