How to Play With Your Cat Using a Wand Toy

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   Step 1: Pick a safe wand

   Choose a sturdy wand with a feather or fabric lure. Store it away after play so your cat cannot chew the string.

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   Step 2: Move like prey

   Drag the lure along the floor and around furniture, then let it pause and hide. Prey moves away from a cat, not toward it.

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   Step 3: Let your cat catch it

   Allow regular catches so your cat feels successful. Constant misses can cause frustration.

   Good to know: Aim for short bursts of 5 to 15 minutes, once or twice a day.

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   Step 4: Slow down at the end

   Gradually slow the lure to let your cat wind down, then let them make a final catch.

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   Step 5: Follow with food

   Offering a meal or treat after play completes the hunt, eat, groom, sleep cycle many cats enjoy.

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   Step 6: Never use hands as toys

   Keep hands out of play to avoid teaching your cat to bite or scratch people.

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