Abstract

Background: Pet cats’ role as family members has been increasing due to the accelerated pace of modern life, resulting in significant growth in the pet cat toy market. Purpose: This study aims to explore the problems associated with existing pet cat toy balls, with the goal of providing safer, healthier and more engaging toy balls for pet cats. It aims to provide pet owners with a more enjoyable environment for human-pet interaction, and to improve the quality of life for both humans and their pets. Methods: The study explores the behavioral habits, emotional and psychological needs of pet cats by means of literature survey, case analysis and comparative study, resulting in the proposal of a series of design principles and elements. The study indicates that the design of emotional toys for cats should focus on sensory stimulation, safety, durability, cleanliness and innovation. The design case studies cover emotional soothing toys from Japan, Europe, America, Korea and China, demonstrating design concepts from different cultural contexts. Results: The study proposes a new pet cat soothing toy ball design that combines the characteristics of cat nature and human cervical membrane massage ball, which considers safety, durability, interactivity, and is implemented using silicone mold one-piece technology. Design optimization and iteration further enriched the diversity and appeal of the toys to suit pet cats of different sizes and preferences. Conclusion: The study concluded that the pet cat soothing toy ball design not only meets the demands of pet owners for high-quality pet products but also strengthens the emotional connection between pet cats and their owners through emotional design, and improves the quality of life of the pets. The optimization and iteration of the design demonstrates the sustainable development potential of the product, introduces a new innovative direction, and anticipates a wide range of applications of emotional design within the field of pet supplies industry.