10 Exercises to Keep Your Cat Active and Healthy

Encouraging your dog to exercise is often straightforward, with options like walks and fetch. However, when it comes to cats, exercise tends to be overlooked.

cat exercise

Many veterinarians recommend incorporating cat workouts into your feline friend's routine to ensure their continued health, even as they age. While cats may not be as eager to exercise as dogs, several strategies help keep them active and mobile. Here are ten cat exercise tips to consider:

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Exercise Partners

Consider having two cats. Cats who get along will engage in wrestling and chasing games, providing each other with exercise and entertainment.

Cat Towers

Multi-tiered "cat towers" available online and in pet stores offer your cat numerous play and climbing opportunities, ensuring a good workout.

Toy Variety

Provide your cat with various toys to keep them engaged. Daily household items like ping pong balls or balled-up pipe cleaners can also be enjoyable playthings.

Create a "Hockey Rink"

Place a ball in a large cardboard box or the bathtub to create an impromptu "hockey rink" for your cat. As the ball bounces off the walls, your cat will engage in lively pursuit, offering exercise and entertainment.

Laser Pointers

Laser pointers can be a source of entertainment and exercise. However, ensure your cat can catch an absolute toy afterward to prevent fixation on the laser beam.

Wand Toys

Interactive play with wand-style toys featuring feathers or other diversions can be highly entertaining and provide exercise for your cat.

Use Catnip Wisely

Catnip can be a helpful tool for exercise, but not all cats respond to it. Use it judiciously and avoid giving it to your cat before stressful events like vet visits.

Treadmill or Wheel

Surprisingly, you can teach your cat to run on a treadmill for exercise. Start when they are young and supervise their treadmill workouts.

Leash Walking

With proper training and equipment, you can take your cat for walks on a leash and harness. Patience and persistence are key when introducing your cat to this activity.

Agility Course

For energetic and agile cats, consider creating an agility course with obstacles like jumps and tunnels to provide physical and mental challenges.