Bags and boxes: Cats love to investigate things, and climbing into a cardboard box or large paper bag will interest the ever-curious feline. Once he is inside, try scratching the outside and watch him ‘attack’ the mysterious intruder.

Paper: Birthdays and holiday festivals are not only exciting times people. Trailing brightly colored wrapping paper along the floor can help stimulate your cat’ chase instinct and he will relish the sensation of sinking his claws into it. You can also add to his enjoyment by providing him with paper of different texture, and rolling some up into balls of different sizes for him to bat along the floor and play with.

King of the castle: Save some strong cardboard boxes of different sizes and glue them together to make a play area for your cat to explore. Cut holes in the side and through the top, some small enough for just a paw to pop through, others large enough for the entire cat to jump inside. Throw a few favorite treats into the ‘castle’ and then watch as your cat leaps in to find them.

Strings and feathers: Cats are fascinated by string, especially when it is being trailed along the floor. Try attaching objects to the end, such as colored ribbon or some feathers, to increase the allure.

Table tennis balls: Cats love playing with these little balls, as they are so light and mobile. If you watch a kitten play with a table tennis ball, you will see him approach it somewhat tentatively at first before giving it a tiny pat. As the ball roll away, the kitten thinks of this as an invitation to chase it, and quickly learns to ‘dribble’ like a football player. These movements are exactly the same as he would make if pursuing and trying to control a mouse.

Fishing rod: You can make fishing rod games easily, from a thin branch or length of dowel. Simply tie feathers or a small, lightweight toy to the end on elastic or string, but avoid real fishing line as it could damage your cat’s gums. Your cat will enjoy leaping to catch his ‘prey’ as you move the fishing rod around.