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Your Ragdoll kitten is naturally curious and very aware of its surroundings. "Everything is a toy!" my sister would excitedly exclaim each time she babysat our Ragdoll kitten. This is very true and is equally adorable to watch as your kitty playfully follows you around your home. Here are some tips and tricks for enhancing playtime.

Playtime is good for your kitten's health.

Much like people and other pets, your Ragdoll will benefit from consistent play/exercise. Playtime supports your kitten's need for activity, encourages the maintenance of a healthy body weight over its lifetime, and keeps its muscles toned and strong. Activities that allow your kitten to express their natural hunting instincts will also keep their mind alert and active. Over time, if kittens (which grow up to be cats) aren't entertained or challenged, they can become lethargic, depressed, or overweight. Boredom or stress could lead to behavioral challenges such as mischief (or otherwise), so regular, interactive playtime of about fifteen minutes several times a day will provide them with the interaction and love they need.

The more you play with your Ragdoll, the more energy it will expend on positive play experiences.

Your Ragdoll will enjoy periods of play and rest throughout the day. Spending time with them when they're awake not only further develops your bond, but will also reinforce positive behaviors and allow you to redirect any unwanted behaviors. Cats are natural hunters, so it makes sense that the best way to get your kitten moving and playing is to stimulate their predatory instincts with toys they can chase as you move about the room. As you select toys, ensure they are age-appropriate and that they simulate the hunting, stalking and chasing behaviors of your kitten. Remember to introduce or alternate toys to keep your cat from becoming bored, and always use toys (not your hand) to discourage biting when playing.

When you don't have time to play with your kitten, consider ways to keep your Ragdoll self-engaged.

To keep them entertained and mentally stimulated, Ragdolls need safe toys they can play with on their own. It is always a good idea to watch them with a new toy to ensure it isn't a hazard (for example, if they are trying to chew it up or it could entangle them). They love crunchy, crinkly toys and unusual spaces, and you will quickly learn your kitten's special affinities. These spaces might include cardboard boxes, paper shopping bags, or a crackly tunnel. As your kitten grows, it might also enjoy interactive toy puzzles that encourage it to investigate various spaces with its paws. Always ensure there are toys that your kitten can throw or bat around, such as small mice (with or without catnip), crinkle toys or rattle balls. When they are little, be selective in what toys you leave them with to avoid any hazards such as strings they could get tangled in or crinkle toys they might eat. Some kittens enjoy watching television or videos made specifically for cats such as an aquarium of fish!

Enjoy getting to know your Ragdoll's favorite play experiences and routines, and use the internet as a resource for more playtime ideas!