Friday, August 15, 2008

Article about Cats [Part 4]

We all know that cats are very playful domesticated animals, even if you flip a piece of string around it will sure run excitedly after it. It is really interesting to observe cats in such a situation - not only will the cat feel excited, we too will be excited to see them chasing around that piece of string!! My next article to share is "Cats at Play".........

One of the most rewarding aspects having cats as pets is to watch them especially the young kittens at play either among themselves or with their parents.

However, what we prefer to as 'play' of the kitten is actually a very important aspect of 'learning' for the kittens, usually from their mother.


Most of the 'play' actions which either the kittens go through instinctively or the mother 'teaches' them, consists of movements related to catching the prey, fighting an enemy or escaping from a
dangerous situation. Such movements include mock fights, biting and scratching without inflicting wounds, pouncing, avoiding the opponent's attacking and running away.

It is interesting to note that kittens take alternately the role of the attacker and they attacked over and over, in addition to being an enjoyable physical fitness exercise, play also helps the kittens to develop muscular coordination and survival skills.


Another function of play is that as communal activity it develops sociability with own kin. A single kitten reared without playmates or play things develops into a neurotic and aggressive cat.


Oh...... see those cute 'playful' cats at PLAY!

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