Cats are known for being lazy, but that doesn’t mean they don’t enjoy a good game of catch every now and then. In fact, playing with your cat is a great way to get them moving and keep them healthy. Here are a few tips on how to exercise your cats through play.
Tips for How to Exercise Your Cat
There are a number of ways to exercise your cat – the key is to find something that works for both you and your feline friend. Here are a few tips to get started:
- Start by gradually increasing the amount of time you spend playing with your cat each day. A good rule of thumb is to add an extra 5-10 minutes each day until you’re up to 30 minutes or more.
- While there are a variety of cat toys available on the market, sometimes the simplest things can be the most fun for your cat – think crumpled up paper balls or makeshift tunnels made out of cardboard boxes. Just use your imagination and let your cat’s natural playfulness shine through!
- Fit your cat with a harness and leash. This will help you keep control of your cat during exercise and also prevents them from running away.
- Start by walking your cat in a quiet, safe area like your backyard or local park.
- Increase the amount of time and distance you walk your cat gradually over time as they become more comfortable with the exercise routine.
- Be sure to always have plenty of fresh water available for your cat during and after exercise.
How do I engage my cat in play?
There are a few things you can do to engage your cat in play:
First, make sure you have some good cat toys. Some favorites include cat wands with feathers or laser pointers. Secondly, get down on your cat’s level – sit or lay down on the floor so they don’t have to look up at you. This will make them feel more comfortable and less intimidated. Finally, be patient – let your cat approach you and the toy, rather than trying to chase them. When they are ready to engage, give them lots of praise and positive reinforcement.
How much playtime does a cat need?
Some cats are content to lounge around all day, while others are full of energy and need hours of playtime.
Age is another factor to consider. Kittens and young cats typically have more energy and require more playtime than older cats. Cats which are middle age may be somewhere in between, depending on their personality and health. Indoor cats generally need more stimulation and playtime than outdoor cats since they have less opportunity to run around and explore.
Health is also important to consider when determining how much playtime a cat needs. A cat with health problems may not have the same energy level as a healthy cat.
