Getting Your Cat Fit and Healthy Through Fun Play

If your cat is becoming overweight or sedentary, knowing how to encourage more activity can be challenging. Cats naturally sleep for much of the day and are generally less keen on exercise, except when hunting or engaging with play that excites their predatory instincts. Thankfully, with the right approach, you can help your feline friend become fitter and happier with fun, engaging activities.

Find Out What Your Cat Enjoys

Cats often have favourite games or toys that stimulate their instincts. Reflect on what your cat enjoyed as a kitten or younger cat, whether it was chasing, hide and seek, activity centres, or scratching posts. Identifying what excites them most will guide you in choosing enjoyable ways to get them moving.

Use Catnip to Spark Interest

Catnip is a safe and natural herb that many cats find irresistible. Its psychoactive effects can temporarily invigorate even the laziest cats. Adding catnip to toys or favourite resting spots can encourage play. Innovative products like catnip bubbles offer interactive fun, prompting your cat to chase and pounce.

Introduce Cardboard Boxes for Exploration

Cats are famously attracted to cardboard boxes due to their enclosed, cozy space that appeals to their natural curiosity. Instead of costly toys, try leaving open boxes around the house. Adding shredded paper or toys inside can make these boxes an enticing playground rather than a napping spot.

Incorporate Rustling Textures and Sounds

Objects that rustle, such as crinkled paper bags (avoid plastic), corrugated cardboard, or rustling fabrics, are often intriguing for cats. They enjoy pouncing, scratching, and exploring these textures, which encourages active play and mental stimulation.

Engage in Interactive Chase Games

Have you noticed your cat's "zoomies" or bursts of energetic play where they dart around and seek interaction? These moments are invitations to play. Engage gently by chasing after them or playing peek-a-boo, but avoid sudden movements that might frighten your cat. Interactive games strengthen your bond and promote exercise.

Use Toys that Simulate Hunting

To really engage your cat's natural instincts, use toys that mimic prey, such as feather wands, strings, or small fabric toys they can carry. Play with your cat using laser pointers (avoiding direct eye contact) or remote-controlled toys to hold their interest. Some owners even teach cats to fetch, enhancing physical and mental activity.

Creating a Stimulating Environment

Providing vertical climbing spaces like cat trees or shelves offers cats opportunities for vertical exercise, which helps burn calories and keeps their muscles toned. Puzzle feeders or hiding food in various spots encourage movement and problem-solving, keeping your cat active and mentally sharp.

Additional Tips for Responsible Care

• Play in short, regular sessions (about 15-20 minutes) tailored to your cat’s energy bursts.
• Observe your cat's reaction to activities; avoid forcing play if they seem disinterested.
• Introduce new toys or rotate playthings to prevent boredom.
• Maintain a balanced diet suited to your cat's activity level to support healthy weight.

Remember, every cat is unique. Patience and observing their cues will help you find the best ways to encourage a healthy, active lifestyle that they enjoy. Responsible play not only benefits their physical health but also enriches their mental wellbeing, building a stronger bond between you and your beloved pet.