Feeling, Judging, and Connecting: Guardian Descriptions and Perceptions of Human-Cat Dyad Play

Humans and domestic cats have a unique relationship that has changed progressively over 10,000 years. This dyad’s play behavior is especially interesting due to its potential role in fostering interspecies communication and bonding. However, human-cat play and guardians’ perceptions of its benefits and detriments may not be well understood. This study used a global online survey which included answers to open-text questions. Responses were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. A total of 1591 responses were analyzed and six major themes were identified. These themes provide insight into guardians’ perceptions of human-cat play and illuminate several diverse and complex concepts of what play entails, its benefits, and how it impacts guardians’ perceptions of cats. Considering growing numbers of cats in human homes and increasing numbers of guardians wishing to keep cats indoors, further research into play, its role in facilitating healthy cat-human relationships, and its ability to provide enrichment is needed.