I've never lived with a cat...ever. I found a feral and a kitten, and after some tough months, we are finally in a better place. The feral does not play a lot, but the kitten still wants to play. A very wise person on this forum recommended Da Bird as a toy. They both love that toy. But I have bought a lot of toys, and they seem bored with them. Pipe cleaners, squeaky mice, balls, crinkle balls, feather and/or material wands, plastic springs, puzzle boxes, and a battery fun feather toy are the toys I've tried so far. Really, Da Bird is the only toy they enjoy. Does anyone have any other recommendations?
And another question...since I am, at heart, a "dog person" (who does not have dogs right now), I find myself rushing home when I am out, thinking the cats are missing me/bored/lonely. My friends say that is the advantage of cats vs. dogs...they can be alone longer. I am usually gone for eight hours at a time, and find myself not making plans for the weekend b/c I feel so guilty about working during the week. When I had dogs, I would take them for hikes on weekends, but my cats are indoor only. Other friends have suggested slowly introducing them to the indoor/outdoor life, but I am hesitant to do that b/c they seem okay living indoors (they do not try to dart out the door), and why risk them getting hurt outside. Am I being ridiculous about feeling guilty when I am gone?
And another question...since I am, at heart, a "dog person" (who does not have dogs right now), I find myself rushing home when I am out, thinking the cats are missing me/bored/lonely. My friends say that is the advantage of cats vs. dogs...they can be alone longer. I am usually gone for eight hours at a time, and find myself not making plans for the weekend b/c I feel so guilty about working during the week. When I had dogs, I would take them for hikes on weekends, but my cats are indoor only. Other friends have suggested slowly introducing them to the indoor/outdoor life, but I am hesitant to do that b/c they seem okay living indoors (they do not try to dart out the door), and why risk them getting hurt outside. Am I being ridiculous about feeling guilty when I am gone?