Does your cat play fetch?

Do you ever play fetch with your... cat?

Yes, did you know that cats can play fetch just like dogs? While we usually think of dogs chasing toys, many cats love to get in on the fun too!

A study by scientists in the UK and US, published in the journal Plos One, found that over 40% of cats play fetch, compared to almost 80% of dogs.

Even though cats and dogs have different ways of hunting, both animals enjoy fetch because it reminds them of their natural instincts.

Do you play fetch with your cats? Take part in our vote and let us know if you use any special toys in the comments below.

Researchers found that when it comes to fetch, cats like to start the game themselves.

Instead of waiting for someone to throw a toy, they often bring an item to their human, like a ball, toy, or even a bottle cap!

Most cats weren’t trained to fetch - they just do it on their own.

The study also found that younger, healthy animals were more likely to fetch than older ones, and male pets fetched more often than females.

Also certain types of cats, like Siamese and Bengals, are more likely to play fetch, researchers found.

People are used to dogs playing fetch, but cats do it too

The study argued that fetch strengthens the connection between pets and people, even if the pets simply see humans as the ones who throw the toy for them to chase.

In both cats and dogs, age and health played a big role in how likely they were to fetch.

Younger, healthier animals were much more active and excited to play, while older pets or those with health issues were less interested in the game.

Both cats and dogs use the game to interact with humans, making them feel closer to their families, according to experts.

Scientists who study fetching behaviour says it has a lot to do with the way animals came to live with humans over time.

Dogs have been bred for thousands of years to help humans, which is why many breeds are naturally good at fetch.

Cats, on the other hand, weren’t bred the same way, but some still enjoy the game just as much.

So next time you’re playing with any of your pets, why not throw a ball or toy and see what happens.