Why Does My Cat Enjoy Playing When I Make My Bed?

Many cat owners have experienced the peculiar sight of their feline friends chasing blankets and sheets around as they go about their morning routine. This playful behavior is not a mysterious call to ancestral instincts. It is simply a delightful activity that makes your cat feel contagious excitement and joy.

Cat Behavior and Playfulness

Even an eight-year-old cat, like Myrtle, continues to find the process of making the bed thrilling. This accentuated play behavior reflects the inherent mewing drive in cats to explore and investigate their environment. My wife, Myrtle, delight in the soft objects moving about the bed, providing a fun and engaging experience.

Emotional Attachment and Boundaries

Removing the cat during bed-making can be crucial. My cat Jaguar loved the blankets so much that I had to scoop her up and bring her in when I began the process. She even managed to get on my son’s bed and back in a matter of minutes! It became apparent that cats love the smell of their owners and want to be close to them, which explains why they would prefer staying in the vicinity of the blankets.

However, managing this behavior requires patience and understanding. Initially, I needed to explain to Myrtle that she could only jump on the bed once the task was complete. Despite my efforts, she would disregard my instructions until I made it clear that she could join us post-bedmaking.

Supervising Chores

Besides the playful aspect, cats can also be enthusiastic supervising companions when owners are engaged in household chores. Whether indoors or outdoors, cats like to be involved in the day-to-day activities of their human companions. For instance, my Border Collie and Mini Blue Merle Shepherd not only supervise but actively participate in various chores, contributing their unique energy.

Human-Cat Bond

This is a testament to the strong bond between humans and their feline friends. It is essential to recognize that cats are not simply pets but essential members of the household, bringing joy and companionship through their unique behavior. As I age, playing with Myrtle is still one of my favorite activities; it keeps both of us engaged and happy. Even when she naps, I make sure to work around her and incorporate our playtime.

Another example of our shared activities is playing soccer. At 80 years old, Myrtle still thinks I'm young and energetic, frequently engaging in active play. This playful behavior not only strengthens our bond but also reminds me to maintain an active lifestyle. With her sweet nature, she fetches the ball as if it were a mini competition, showcasing her energetic and playful side.

Shared Moments with CJ

While Myrtle enjoys this display of playfulness, other cats may have different preferences. Such is the case with my cat CJ, who has a unique way of enjoying closeness. She loves cuddling while sucking on my jumper, a cozy and affectionate way for her to bond with me. CJ, who used to jump on my shoulders, now finds that less exciting, perhaps due to her growing maturity. However, she still craves the physical closeness and affection, often snuggling and seeking kisses.

Cats like CJ and Myrtle provide us with incredible companionship and joy, showcasing the depth of their emotional and social connections. Understanding their behavior and adapting to it can enhance the quality of our interactions and the overall enjoyment of life with our feline friends.

Ultimately, the playful moments shared with my cats Myrtle and CJ remind me of the incredible joy these small creatures bring to our lives. These moments are a reminder to embrace the endearing qualities of our feline companions and cherish the unique bond we share with them.