But even more, cat play is related to the primary need of food acquisition. Cats have evolved as hunters. These are all things cats do in hunting prey and they are the things that they most love to do in play. It's what they have evolved to do, and if as an owner or companion of a cat you can provide it to them on a regular basis, you are doing them a great service. Moreover, the bond between you and your cat will invariably grow stronger.
Morning time is probably best.
If you vary the times of day you do these, the cat will become less expectant of it as compared to doing them at a set time. Here's where your imagination can be such a wonderful thing. Remember, how cats love to play. The game is hunt and you get the assignment of prey or victim. Now this doesn't mean you try to get the cat to jump on you and bite you.