Cats just want to have fun: Associations between play and welfare in domestic cats

Play is often considered an indicator and promotor of animal welfare and may facilitate closer cat-human relationships. However, few studies have empirically investigated these associations. The current study aimed to investigate play-related factors associated with four welfare outcome measures in cats (Felis catus) including: cat quality of life; cat-guardian relationship quality; problem behaviour prevalence; and behavioural changes. An online survey was developed using demographic information, questions related to play and resources, free text sections and the following validated measures: cat quality of life (QOL), the cat owner relationship scale, and the adult playfulness trait scale. Responses were completed by 1,591 cat guardians from 55 countries. Higher cat playfulness scores and a greater number of games played were significantly associated with higher cat QOL scores while longer amounts of daily play, greater number of games, both cat and guardian initiating play and higher guardian playfulness scores were all significantly associated with higher cat-guardian relationship scores. Exclusively indoor housing was significantly associated with both higher cat QOL and higher cat-guardian relationships scores compared to cats with outdoor access. Behavioural changes associated with distress in cats were reported when play was absent. Play may be an important factor in assessing and maintaining cat welfare. Further research into the mechanisms of how play impacts welfare and cat-guardian relationships is needed.

Automated summary

Play is considered important for cat welfare and can facilitate closer cat-human relationships. This study investigated various factors related to play and their association with cat quality of life, cat-guardian relationship, problem behavior prevalence, and behavioral changes. The findings showed that higher cat playfulness scores and more games played were associated with better cat quality of life, while longer playtime, more games, and both cat and guardian initiating play were associated with stronger cat-guardian relationships. Cats with access to outdoor space had lower scores in both quality of life and relationships compared to exclusively indoor cats. The absence of play was associated with distress-related behavioral changes in cats. This highlights the importance of play in assessing and maintaining cat welfare, warranting further research.