Exercise is just as important for pets as it is for people. However, our feline friends aren’t always purrticularly motivated to stay active, especially once they’re past their ‘teenage’ years. You won’t have much luck getting Fluffy to run laps around the kitchen, and she’ll likely be more interested in sleeping on your exercise equipment than in using it. How do you keep a kitty fit? A local Aurora, CO vet offers some tips below.
Playtime
Daily play sessions make the number one spot on this list. Running, jumping, and pouncing are all great kitty workouts! Even a few minutes of chasing that mysterious red dot or batting at a wand toy will benefit your furball. This is also a good way to bond with Fluffy, and spend time with her.
Toys
While playing with Fluffy is great, it’s also important for her to have toys she can use while you’re out. Catnip mice, rubber balls, and crinkle toys are all good examples. Remember to check under the couch regularly, and retrieve the toys your kitty batted under it.
Cat Furniture
Cat furniture is great for our furry pals for many reasons, but one important thing is that it encourages—and allows—kitties to jump and climb. Get Fluffy a cat tower or catwalk to look adorable on.
Hidey-Holes
Kitties are very inquisitive by nature, and love to explore things. Cat tents, pet tunnels, and newspaper tunnels can all pique your pet’s interest. Don’t be surprised if your furball enjoys ambushing you from these ‘secret’ kitty hiding spots! Move these things around regularly to keep things fun and fresh for your feline buddy.
Trickery
Sometimes, when you’re trying to get a cat to do something (or not do something) you just need to resort to bribery. Every now and then, pick up one of your cute pet’s toys and toss it down the hall. Chances are, she’ll race after it, just out of instinct. You can also try calling your furry friend to you. She may come running! (Fluffy may also choose to completely ignore you, but that’s another topic.) Just be sure to reward your feline pal with praise and cuddles, so she doesn’t think that you summoned her for nothing.
Please reach out to us, your Aurora, CO vet clinic, for all of your cat’s veterinary care needs. We are always happy to help!
