Health Issues of the 'Home Alone' Cat

Dear Daily Mews

I'm a 'home-alone' cat without access to the great outside. I spend most of the day asleep on my 'Human's' bed or looking out the window. What kind of things could I do to keep me occupied so that I don't get bored? What do you suggest I do to keep in shape?

Wistful William

Dear Wistful William

Garfield here: [sucking in my stomach] There is a much to be gained by sleeping all day because when your 'Humans' come home each evening you'll be full of energy and will be able to play with them for hours, much to their great delight after a long, hard, tiring day at work.

I was very lucky as my brother Biggles and I were brought home together, so we had each other to play with. You must feel quite lonely all day long. Humans should always try to get cats or kittens in pairs because while they are out all day doing their Human stuff, we don't get bored.

There are many toys on the market that don't cost very much that you would enjoy. Here in the Daily Mews toy box we have catnip mice, ping-pong balls, jingly balls and all sorts of things.

One of my favourite toys was a piece of silver foil rolled into a ball - I played with that ball for months and when it disintegrated it was easily and cheaply replaced.

Some of our larger toys require some effort but are nevertheless good fun. One is shaped like a wedge of cheese with holes in. There is a ball inside it, which can be pushed around providing hours of fun. Another one is a large round disc shape with a scratch pad in the centre and an outer groove which a ball travels round - pushed by paws, I hasten to add.

In order to keep in shape I suggest you get your Humans to throw things for you to chase and retrieve or ask them for the latest cat gym. Some of these are totally awesome. Alternatively, you could race around the walls or jump on and off the furniture - careful not to leave any incriminating evidence!

Maybe they'll get you a playmate so that you won't feel lonely anymore but failing that, maybe you could ask for cable TV with your own remote control pawset - the world will be your oyster then. You can watch documentaries, soaps, quiz shows, or watch fitness videos.

Keep in touch William and hopefully you won't be feeling so wistful. Happy Mew Year - hope it's PURRFECT for you.

Garfield

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