Presents for a cat

Many people like to give their cat something at Christmas or on a birthday.

Good presents let a cat do what cats do anyway. They chase, climb, hide and scratch.

These notes draw on advice from UK cat charities and vets. They cover what makes a good present and what to keep out of a cat's reach.

Toys that let a cat hunt

Cats Protection suggests games that let a cat stalk, pounce, chase and bat things with a paw. A fishing rod toy with a feather or a mouse on the end does this well. It also keeps claws away from your hands.

Let the cat catch the toy now and then, so the game does not end in frustration. Short games of one to two minutes are fine. Older cats may enjoy three or four games a day, and younger cats ten or more.

A treat ball or a puzzle feeder makes a cat work for its food. Blue Cross says this gives good mental exercise. A larger kicker toy suits cats who like to grab with the front paws and kick with the back legs.

Somewhere to scratch and climb

Scratching keeps claws in good condition, and every cat needs somewhere to do it. A good scratching post has a heavy, stable base so it does not wobble. It is tall enough for the cat to scratch at full stretch.

Some cats prefer to scratch flat surfaces such as carpets and stairs. A scratching mat suits them better. Cats often stretch and scratch when they wake, so a post near the bed tends to get used.

An activity centre with several levels gives a cat a high, safe place to watch from. Blue Cross notes this helps in homes with more than one cat.

Catnip

Catnip is a herb in the mint family. Cats Protection says only around 70 to 80% of pet cats react to it, and kittens under six months usually do not. The effect lasts about ten minutes. Small amounts are believed to be safe.

Collars, if you choose one

Cats Protection says the safest collar is a quick-release or snap-open one, which pops open if it gets caught. It does not recommend elasticated collars. You should be able to fit two fingers under the collar.

A microchip is a better way to get a lost cat home. In England, pet cats must be microchipped by 20 weeks old, including cats that stay indoors.

Things to keep away from a cat

String, wool and ribbon need care. Cats Protection advises against leaving a cat alone with toys it could shred and eat or get tangled in. Check toys for wear and replace them when needed.

Lilies are a common gift for people, but they are extremely poisonous to cats. PDSA says every part is dangerous, pollen included. A cat that licks pollen off its fur can get kidney damage. If your cat touches a lily, contact a vet straight away.