the verdict

Mostly “A’s” • The Play Monster

This energetic and excitable sort is ALWAYS ready to hunt, chase, and play. Stock up on a wide range of toys and activities like wand toys, catnip toys, puzzle toys, mice toys… The way to this cat’s heart is through active play with you. Try teaching her tricks like fetching or catching—her intelligence makes her a great candidate for advanced play!

Mostly “B’s”• The Aloof Lazybones

It takes a lot to get this cat moving. He doesn’t really need your attention but would love a comfy bed— petplay.com makes awesome ones—and three squares a day, supplemented with treats, of course. (Our cats seriously love Redbarn's grain-free turkey treats.) This cat is the ultimate homebody; because he is food-motivated, treat balls are one way to get him off the cat bed. This cat doesn’t necessarily wear his heart on his sleeve, but he loves you all the same.

Mostly “C’s” • The Lovebug

This purr-machine is your constant companion. Wherever you go, she is there. Give this girl lots and lots of pets and loves, and she’ll give them right back to you. In your absence, anything that reminds her of you is aces. The Snuggle Kitty (smartpetlove.com) can be a great comfort for your cat when you’re not around. It's warmth and simulated heartbeat are calming and comforting. And the very cool Petzi treat cam (petzi.com) lets you check in and interact with your cat (and dispense treats!) via your smartphone or tablet.

Mostly “D’s” • The Shy Guy/Gal

Sightings of this cat are rare but electrifying. He is nervous in new situations (and often old situations too). A comfy hiding spot like that provided by a Cat Ball bed (love these! Check them out at thecatball.com) or an elevated den is essential for this guy’s peace of mind. Solo play toys like the Cynjo 4-in-1 Cat Roll Toy that holds catnip, dispenses treats and features feathers and sisal ($15, cynjo.com) or Cattitude Cat Toy's adorable hand-knit-inVermont felted wool cat toys stuffed with organic catnip ($10, etsy.com/ shop/CattitudeCatToy) are great for stimulating these independent cats. Or a wand toy with a long wand and string like Da Bird Go Cat Catcher Teaser Wand helps you build a bond together but from a safe distance. Above all, this cat needs space and your patience until he feels confident enough to interact with you outside of when you’re asleep.

A Mix of Letters: The Renaissance Cat

This well-rounded cat is easy going and loving. She’s not picky about her environment, but needs all the essentials: a great perch, tasty food and treats, and a wide variety of toys and stimulating activities. When we meet one of these Renaissance Cats, we’ll let you know.