Exercising a Cat – Tips to Keep Your Cat in Shape!

We could all use a little more exercise in our lives, and your cat is no exception! You may be wondering if exercising a cat is even possible! Cats do love to play but can often get bored quickly and flop right down after two minutes of playtime! Here’s a few tips on how to exercise your furry friend from the experts at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill.

4 Tips for Exercising a Cat

Playtime is exercise time, but what do you do when your cat gets bored quickly or just isn’t interested? Here are a few tips on how to exercise a cat:

1. Change up the environment – Cats love varied enrichment! Your cat might just be bored playing in the same area every day. Adding fresh, new obstacles and toys every once in a while can really liven things up. Switching out your old cat tree for a new scratching post or cat-tunnel may be just the boost your cat needs to feel interested again.
2. Try short sessions a few times per day – Your cat may have a short attention span (don’t we all?), so 10-15 minutes of playtime is all your cat may be interested in. That’s okay! Try playing a few times per day if you have a few minutes here and there. Repeated playtime isn’t just great for your cat’s physical health, but for their mental health, too!
3. Remember: Toys = Prey – Your cat is a natural predator! They will want to bite, chew, scratch, and chase. If you want your cat to exercise, encouraging this behavior is a great idea! Be prepared for them to chew up or destroy their toys just as you might expect with a dog. It’s natural and not only will it help them stay active, but you’ll notice they’re happier as well!
4. Try puzzle toys – Feathers and laser pointers are great, but a bored cat (or a lazy one) might just feel they’ve outsmarted that toy already. Puzzle toys will keep a mindful cat’s interest for longer.

Concerned for Your Cat’s Health? Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

If you’re having trouble getting your cat to exercise, or you’re concerned about their health, eating habits, or weight, it’s time to talk to the vet! Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for more information on how to exercise a cat, our medical services, or to schedule an appointment at 856-662-2662.