Most house cats spend the majority of their time snoozing. It’s actually not unusual for cats to sleep an average of 15 hours per day. Even though they have a reputation for being lazy, it’s important that your kitty is staying physically active. According to a 2016 survey by the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention, about 59 percent of cats are overweight.
Fortunately, a little exercise can help your cat maintain a healthy weight, in addition to helping to keep them strong. Not to mention it’s also a great way to bond with your feline friend. We’ve partnered with Purina Pro Plan SIMPLY FIT to share some workout tips for how to get your cat active.
Place Their Bowls On a High Surface
Meal time is a great opportunity to get your cat moving. By placing your cat’s food and water bowls on a high surface, you can encourage them to jump up. You can even place the dishes on a higher level in your house so your cat has to go up the stairs to eat.
Hide Their Treats
Hiding treats in places your cat frequents is a fun way to get them active. Whether it’s under the couch or in their favorite toy, this game of hide-and-seek will engage your cat physically and mentally. Just be careful not to overdo it on the treats, since too many calories could keep your cat from getting fit. It’s recommended that treats only make up 10 percent of your cat’s daily calories.
Take Your Cat For a Walk
Dogs aren’t the only ones who can benefit from spending time in the great outdoors. Try taking your cat for a walk outside, where they can get some fresh air and enjoy the sounds of birds chirping. Not all cats will be comfortable wearing a walking harness, so it’s important to start their leash training indoors. Find out if this kind of exercise is a good fit before letting them explore the outside world.
Play With Interactive Toys
Cats are natural hunters, so they are excited by things they can chase, whether it’s a feather wand or a laser pointer. Toys your cat can engage with can get them running and pouncing. When playing with your cat, let them prey on their toys like they would on smaller animals in the wild.
Get Your Cat A Playmate
One way to get your cat active is to get them a companion to play with. Despite the perception that cats are solitary animals, they can actually enjoy being social with other felines. Adding another cat to your household can keep your kitty physically stimulated. Each cat will keep the other active through daily interaction and playtime.
If your cats are too heavy, Purina Pro Plan SIMPLY FIT may be a great option to help them lose those extra pounds. Unlike the traditional weight loss method of continuous calorie restriction, the SIMPLY FIT system varies calorie intake over time, NOT portion size. This innovative weight loss system can help your cats shed extra pounds and rediscover their best selves.