How can you keep your indoor cat active and healthy. What are effective ways to encourage exercise in cats. Which cat-friendly activities promote physical and mental stimulation. Why is regular exercise crucial for feline wellbeing.

The Importance of Feline Fitness: Why Exercise Matters for Cats

Many pet owners understand the significance of regular exercise for dogs, but cats often get overlooked in this aspect. However, veterinarians emphasize that physical activity is equally crucial for felines. Regular exercise not only helps maintain a healthy weight but also promotes mental stimulation, reduces behavioral issues, and contributes to overall wellbeing.

Cats are natural predators with an instinct to hunt, climb, and explore. In domestic settings, especially for indoor cats, it’s essential to provide opportunities that mimic these natural behaviors. This is where structured exercise routines come into play.

Benefits of Regular Cat Exercise

• Weight management
• Improved cardiovascular health
• Enhanced muscle tone and flexibility
• Stress reduction
• Mental stimulation
• Strengthened bond between cat and owner

Feline Fitness Partners: The Advantages of Multi-Cat Households

One of the simplest ways to ensure your cat gets enough exercise is to introduce a feline companion. Dr. Jean Hofve, a veterinarian and author, suggests that having two cats can naturally encourage physical activity through play and interaction.

Cats in multi-pet households often engage in wrestling, chasing games, and other playful activities that provide excellent exercise. This approach is particularly effective when the cats are introduced simultaneously or at a young age, as they’re more likely to form a strong bond and play together regularly.

Tips for Successful Multi-Cat Exercise

1. Choose cats with compatible personalities
2. Provide ample space and resources for both cats
3. Offer multiple play areas to prevent territorial disputes
4. Supervise initial interactions to ensure positive experiences

Vertical Adventures: Harnessing Your Cat’s Natural Climbing Instincts

Cats are natural climbers, and providing vertical spaces can significantly enhance their exercise routine. Cat towers, also known as cat trees or climbing structures, offer an excellent solution for indoor cats to satisfy their climbing instincts while getting a good workout.

Dr. Susan Nelson, an associate professor of clinical sciences at Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, recommends placing small treats at different levels of the cat tower to encourage exploration and climbing. This not only provides physical exercise but also engages your cat’s problem-solving skills and natural hunting instincts.

Selecting the Perfect Cat Tower

• Choose a sturdy, well-constructed tower that can support your cat’s weight
• Look for varied surfaces (e.g., carpet, sisal rope) to provide different textures for scratching
• Ensure the tower has multiple levels and platforms for climbing and perching
• Consider models with built-in toys or hiding spots for added engagement

Toys Galore: Unleashing Your Cat’s Playful Side

One of the most effective ways to encourage cat exercise is by providing a variety of toys. Cats are naturally curious creatures, and new toys can spark their interest and promote physical activity. Dr. Nelson emphasizes that these toys don’t have to be expensive or store-bought; many household items can serve as excellent cat toys.

DIY Cat Toy Ideas

• Crumpled paper balls
• Empty cardboard toilet paper rolls
• Ping pong balls
• Balled-up pipe cleaners
• Feathers tied to a string

Rotating toys regularly can help maintain your cat’s interest and prevent boredom. Additionally, interactive toys that dispense treats or require problem-solving can provide both mental and physical stimulation.

Creating a Feline Sports Arena: The Cardboard Box Hockey Rink

For an engaging and interactive exercise experience, Dr. Nelson suggests creating a “hockey rink” for your cat using everyday household items. This simple yet effective activity can provide hours of entertainment and exercise for your feline friend.

How to Create a Cat Hockey Rink

1. Find a large cardboard box or use your bathtub
2. Place a small ball (e.g., ping pong ball) inside
3. Encourage your cat to bat the ball around
4. Watch as your cat chases the ball as it ricochets off the walls

This activity not only provides physical exercise but also engages your cat’s hunting instincts and problem-solving skills. The enclosed space creates a sense of security for your cat while allowing them to play energetically.

Laser Pointer Play: Harnessing the Power of Light for Feline Fitness

Laser pointers can be an incredibly effective tool for encouraging cat exercise. The small, fast-moving light activates a cat’s predatory instincts, prompting them to chase and pounce. However, it’s important to use laser toys responsibly to avoid frustration or obsessive behavior in your cat.

Guidelines for Safe Laser Pointer Play

• Never shine the laser directly into your cat’s eyes
• Move the light in unpredictable patterns to mimic prey movement
• Allow your cat to “catch” the light occasionally by shining it on a toy
• Follow up laser play with a physical toy your cat can capture
• Limit laser play sessions to prevent overstimulation

Dr. Hofve advises using laser toys in moderation and always concluding the play session with a tangible toy. This approach satisfies your cat’s hunting instincts and prevents frustration from never being able to physically catch the light.

Wand Toys: Interactive Play for Enhanced Bonding and Exercise

Wand toys, also known as fishing pole toys, are excellent tools for interactive play between cats and their owners. These toys typically consist of a flexible rod with a string attached, often featuring feathers, fabric mice, or other enticing objects at the end.

Dr. Hofve highly recommends wand toys for cat exercise, noting that they can provide a satisfying outlet for a cat’s hunting instincts while also strengthening the bond between pet and owner. The versatility of wand toys allows for a range of movements and play styles, making each session unique and engaging.

Maximizing Exercise with Wand Toys

• Mimic natural prey movements by making the toy dart and flutter
• Incorporate vertical play by moving the toy up furniture or stairs
• Vary the speed and direction of the toy to keep your cat engaged
• Allow your cat to “catch” the toy occasionally for a sense of accomplishment
• Use different attachments to maintain novelty and interest

Remember to always supervise play sessions with wand toys and store them safely out of reach when not in use to prevent accidental ingestion of strings or attachments.

Catnip: A Natural Exercise Stimulant

Catnip, a member of the mint family, can be a powerful tool for encouraging exercise in cats. This herb contains nepetalactone, a compound that can trigger a euphoric response in many felines, often resulting in increased playfulness and activity.

However, Dr. Hofve advises using catnip judiciously and understanding its effects on individual cats. Not all cats respond to catnip, and those that do may react differently. Some become more active and playful, while others might become relaxed or even slightly aggressive.

Tips for Using Catnip Effectively

• Introduce catnip gradually to observe your cat’s reaction
• Use catnip-infused toys to encourage play and exercise
• Sprinkle dried catnip on scratching posts or cat trees to promote climbing
• Avoid using catnip before stressful events, such as vet visits
• Limit catnip sessions to prevent desensitization

When used appropriately, catnip can be an excellent tool for initiating play sessions and encouraging physical activity in cats.

Feline Fitness Equipment: Cat Exercise Wheels and Treadmills

For highly energetic cats or those needing structured exercise routines, cat exercise wheels and treadmills can be valuable tools. These specialized pieces of equipment allow cats to run and walk in place, providing an excellent cardiovascular workout.

Dr. Hofve notes that while cats can be trained to use treadmills, it’s crucial to introduce the equipment gradually and always supervise its use. Starting with younger cats who have more energy and are more adaptable to new experiences can be beneficial.

Introducing Your Cat to Exercise Equipment

1. Allow your cat to investigate the equipment at their own pace
2. Use treats or toys to create positive associations with the device
3. Start with short, supervised sessions
4. Gradually increase duration as your cat becomes more comfortable
5. Never force your cat to use the equipment

Remember that while cats can run at speeds up to 30 miles per hour, it’s essential to start slow and gradually increase the speed to find a comfortable pace for your individual cat.

Outdoor Adventures: Leash Training for Cats

Contrary to popular belief, cats can be trained to walk on a leash, providing them with safe outdoor exercise opportunities. This activity not only offers physical benefits but also mental stimulation through exposure to new sights, sounds, and smells.

Dr. Hofve recommends using a harness specifically designed for cats, preferably one that covers a larger portion of the cat’s back for added security and comfort. Leash training requires patience and consistency but can be a rewarding experience for both cat and owner.

Steps for Leash Training Your Cat

1. Introduce the harness gradually, allowing your cat to investigate it
2. Place the harness on your cat for short periods indoors, offering treats and praise
3. Once comfortable with the harness, attach the leash and let your cat drag it around under supervision
4. Begin holding the leash and applying gentle pressure
5. Start with short indoor “walks” before venturing outdoors
6. Choose quiet, enclosed outdoor areas for initial outings

Remember that not all cats will take to leash walking, and it’s essential to respect your cat’s comfort level throughout the training process.

Feline Agility Courses: Challenging Your Cat’s Athletic Abilities

For particularly energetic and agile cats, setting up an agility course can provide an excellent workout while tapping into their natural instincts to climb, jump, and navigate obstacles. Agility training not only offers physical benefits but also provides mental stimulation and can strengthen the bond between cat and owner.

Creating a Cat Agility Course

• Use cardboard boxes to create tunnels and hiding spots
• Set up low hurdles using household items
• Create balance beams with wooden planks
• Use hula hoops as jumping targets
• Incorporate vertical elements like cat trees or shelves

When introducing your cat to an agility course, start with simple obstacles and gradually increase the difficulty. Use treats or toys to encourage your cat to navigate the course, and always prioritize safety by ensuring all elements are secure and appropriate for your cat’s size and ability level.

Tailoring Exercise to Your Cat’s Needs: Age, Health, and Personality Considerations

While regular exercise is crucial for all cats, it’s important to tailor activities to your individual feline’s needs, taking into account factors such as age, health status, and personality. Younger cats and kittens generally have higher energy levels and may require more intense play sessions, while older cats might benefit from gentler, low-impact activities.

Exercise Recommendations by Cat Life Stage

• Kittens: Multiple short play sessions throughout the day, focusing on activities that develop coordination and strength
• Adult cats: A mix of interactive play, solo activities, and environmental enrichment
• Senior cats: Gentle play sessions, low-impact activities, and mental stimulation exercises

Cats with health issues such as arthritis, obesity, or respiratory problems may require modified exercise routines. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting a new exercise regimen, especially for cats with existing health concerns.

Integrating Exercise into Your Cat’s Daily Routine

Consistency is key when it comes to feline fitness. Incorporating regular exercise into your cat’s daily routine can help establish healthy habits and ensure they receive adequate physical activity. While the amount of exercise needed can vary based on individual factors, aim for at least two 10-15 minute play sessions per day for adult cats.

Tips for Establishing a Cat Exercise Routine

• Set regular times for interactive play sessions
• Rotate toys and activities to maintain interest
• Use feeding times as opportunities for activity (e.g., food puzzles)
• Create an enriching environment that encourages natural behaviors
• Pay attention to your cat’s cues and energy levels

Remember that every cat is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be patient and willing to experiment with different activities to find what best suits your feline friend’s preferences and needs.

Monitoring Your Cat’s Exercise Progress and Adjusting Accordingly

As with any fitness routine, it’s important to monitor your cat’s progress and make adjustments as needed. Keep an eye on your cat’s weight, energy levels, and overall health to ensure their exercise regimen is providing the intended benefits.

Signs Your Cat’s Exercise Routine is Effective

• Maintained or improved body condition
• Increased energy and playfulness
• Better sleep patterns
• Improved muscle tone
• Reduced stress-related behaviors

If you notice any concerning changes in your cat’s behavior or health during exercise, such as excessive panting, lethargy, or reluctance to play, consult with your veterinarian. They can help determine if adjustments to the exercise routine are necessary or if there are underlying health issues that need to be addressed.

The Role of Nutrition in Supporting Your Cat’s Exercise Routine

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in supporting your cat’s exercise regimen. Proper nutrition ensures your cat has the energy to engage in physical activities and helps maintain muscle mass and overall health. Consider discussing your cat’s diet with your veterinarian, especially if you’re increasing their activity level significantly.

Nutritional Considerations for Active Cats

• Adequate protein to support muscle maintenance and growth
• Appropriate calorie intake to match activity level
• Essential fatty acids for joint health and inflammation reduction
• Proper hydration to support physical activity
• Consideration of life stage and health status in dietary choices

Remember that as your cat becomes more active, their nutritional needs may change. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian can help ensure your cat’s diet remains appropriate for their activity level and overall health status.

10 Cat Exercises Your Pet Will Enjoy

Enticing your dog to get active with a walk around the block or a game of fetch is a no-brainer and a fairly common pet health practice. But when it comes to cats, many people don’t realize the value of exercise.

Many veterinarians recommend cat workouts to keep cats healthy well into their old age. And though a cat won’t exercise as readily as a dog will, there are a few strategies that will help you keep your cat active and mobile.

Try these 10 cat exercise tips:

1. Pair up exercise partners. Since a cat won’t respond to your requests to play as easily as a dog might, Jean Hofve, DVM, author and manager of LittleBigCat.com in Denver, has a simple solution to ensure that felines get their needed cat exercise: Start with two cats. “A pair of cats who get along well will get plenty of exercise through their own wrestling and chasing games. I’ve known older cats who still wrestle like kittens,” says Dr. Hofve, adding that it’s easier to get two cats at the same time than to introduce a second cat later on.
2. Try a cat tower. The multi-tiered “cat towers” sold online and in pet stores are another good way to ensure that your cat will have plenty of places to play and areas to climb for a good workout. Susan Nelson, DVM, an associate professor of clinical sciences at Kansas State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in Manhattan, Kansas, suggests placing small treats in different parts of the tower to encourage climbing and playing.
3. Keep plenty of toys around. Because cats tend to keep to themselves much more than dogs, the best strategy for cat workouts is to give them plenty of options in the form of toys. And these don’t have to be expensive toys from the pet store either. Dr. Nelson says you can use everyday household objects as toys to encourage cats to exercise. Think pingpong balls or balled-up pipe cleaners.
4. Create a hockey rink. To make things even more interactive and fun, Nelson recommends putting a ball in a large cardboard box or the bathtub to create an instant “hockey rink” for your cat. As the ball goes flying off the walls (and the cat goes flying after it), you’ll get some laughs and your cat will get some much-needed exercise.
5. Have fun with lasers. Speaking of laughs, few things will entertain you more — or have your cat moving faster — than a laser pointer on the end of a pen or leveling tool. “Laser toys are often good entertainment, but follow it up with a real toy the cat can catch to avoid fixation and frustration over never being able to catch the light beam,” says Hofve. “Be sure to never shine the beam directly into the cat’s eyes.”
6. Give your cat a wand. This is a great cat exercise and a good follow-up to the laser, Hofve says. Get one of the flexible wand-style toys with a feather, mouse, or other diversion on the far end. “Interactive play with a wand or fishing-pole-type toy is fabulous exercise, usually quite funny, and extremely satisfying for the big hunter in your little cat,” Hofve says. “You can make it more challenging by running the toy up and over the sofa or up and down stairs to increase the exercise intensity. ”
7. Use catnip wisely. Catnip is a useful tool for getting your cat to exercise, but Hofve says it’s best to use it only in the proper situations. “Remember that not all cats respond to catnip, and of those that do, a few will become aggressive from catnip,” she says. “Also, never give catnip before a stressful event, such as a trip to the vet. Your vet will thank you!”
8. Get your cat on a treadmill or wheel, with supervision. Believe it or not, you can actually teach your cat to run on a treadmill for exercise, Hofve says. “It’s best to start when they are young, have lots of energy to burn, and are easy to entice with a toy,” she says. “Also, you should always supervise the cat while it’s on the treadmill.” Cats can run up to 30 miles per hour, but start slow and work up because you do not know what your cat’s speed is, Hofve says.
9. Go outside. With proper training and the right equipment, you can entice your cat to walk with a leash and a harness outside, just like dogs do. “Leash-walking is great if you can get your cat to tolerate the harness and lead,” says Hofve, who favors a type of harness that is more like a soft garment for the upper part of the cat’s back, with straps built in. “Make sure the harness fits properly and can’t be wriggled out of. Young cats are easier to train, but in all cases it takes patience and perseverance.” First let them get used to the harness, then attach the leash and let them drag it, and then pick up the leash and put a little bit of pressure on it. It could take a week or two to get them really comfortable, although Hofve says they may take to it immediately.
10. Create an agility course. If your cat is extremely energetic and agile, try some cat agility exercises, Hofve suggests. You might be more familiar with these challenges for dogs or horses, but cats can also enjoy this mix of speed and challenge. These programs include a number of obstacles, such as bars to jump over or tunnels to pass through, which push your cat both physically and mentally, Hofve says. She recommends researching cat agility courses online.

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How to Get Your Cat to Exercise

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Reviewed by Vanesa Farmer, DVM on March 16, 2023

You’re not the only one who needs to work out. Exercise is important to your cat’s overall health. Movement, especially the kind that uses their hunting skills, can keep their weight down and help them work off extra energy. Playtime is crucial for their mental well-being, too — it can help stop depression and boredom, which can lead to bigger health and behavior issues.

With a little help from you, your kitty can stay healthy and active — and have a little more fun, too.

Aim to play with your cat for around 10 to 15 minutes at a time. If they don’t enjoy it, they’ll let you know. When they get bored, put the toys away and offer some praise and a few treats.

Introduce some new toys. You probably already know that cats are fond of feathers and strings. But you can watch them while they play to find out what kinds of objects they like best.  Try out a toy shaped like a bird, then one that looks like a mouse, and another that resembles a bug. The plaything she likes most can help you figure out what kind to buy in the future. 

Be prepared for the kill. Cats are especially satisfied when they can get their teeth and claws solidly into their playthings. Let them do it, and be ready to offer replacement toys and feathers when old ones get worn out.

Add some new levels to your games. Get a multi-story cat tree and put it near an open floor space where your cat can run, then jump onto it.

Get your cat a piñata. Cats love to bat things that hang overhead. Food inside will offer even more motivation. To make a piñata, use a plastic container, like an old yogurt or sour cream cup with a lid. Cut a small hole in the bottom of it. Put a treat or two inside and hang it up with a string where your cat can reach it. If they hit it the right way, the treats will fall out.

Put on a tail. If you tuck a string or a long piece of cloth into the back of your pants, your cat can chase it as you walk around the house. But don’t leave the string out if you’re not supervising. If your cat swallows the string, it can be life threatening.

Take a hike. Just like dogs, cats can learn to walk on a leash, though it’s best if you can teach them how while they are young. Strolls outside are best suited to cats who aren’t shy. Use a harness instead of just a collar and the leash. Before you go outside together, make sure there aren’t any loose neighborhood dogs that might spook them.

Don’t forget the lasers. A laser pointer can provide endless entertainment and, yes, exercise, as your cat chases it. Take care not to shine the laser directly into the cat’s or anyone else’s eyes.

Put playtime on the calendar. Carve out a spot in your schedule for you and kitty to have some fun every day. Cats are most active at dawn and dusk, so the evening or early morning would be ideal. You might also work in a play session before their meals to give them the thrill of the hunt as the cat “catches” their food.

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How to train a cat and what commands to teach?

To learn how to train a cat at home, start with the simplest steps – encouraging good behavior and preventing bad. But can a cat be trained the same way as a dog? Yes and no. Because cats are very independent animals, they may seem uninterested or uninterested in being with you. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be trained. All it takes is a little patience and understanding, and you can quickly teach commands to your kitten or older cat.

What do you want to teach your cat?

First, decide what you would like to teach your cat as a beginner trainer, and then move towards this goal in small steps every day. However, before you start training your pet, think about what commands you will give her and what skills you want to achieve. Remember that you asked questions before: how to teach a cat to use a tray, how to ensure her calmness during trips to the veterinarian, how to stop scratching carpets or furniture? These are the tasks that you will solve during training.

Here are some general goals:

• To litter train your cat.
• Teach your pet to come to you when you call her by voice or gesture.
• Teach your cat to be calm when you brush it.
• Teach her to interact with you, other people or animals.
• Teach your kitten to play with toys, with you or another cat.
• Teach the animal to remain calm while traveling (when boarding and driving).

There are many important reasons for training your pet. But most importantly, if you teach a cat to behave properly, it will not avoid people and other animals. Training is also important for your own peace of mind: if the pet is calm when you cut her nails, or during trips, neither you nor she will have a reason to worry. The better the cat is brought up, the closer your relationship with it.

Each training session should be short and natural

Once you have determined which commands your cat needs to learn, start training. The first thing to consider is the fact that a cat’s attention span is shorter than yours. You should not expect that every time you train her, she will show interest in this. Stop training as soon as the animal gets tired.

Because some kittens are litter trained quickly (or may have already learned before you bring them home), this training may take very little time. But you may still need to bring your cat to the litter box for a while to remind her where it is. If you are teaching a kitten to play with toys (and with you), this training should be done in stages. Cats prefer to learn new toys on their own, which means that your role is only one thing – not to disturb the pet and at the same time not to leave her alone. Then, when she gets to know the new item, you can play with her.

Start small

If you enjoy training your cat, you can start teaching commands right away. To achieve success, it is better to teach one thing at a time. Once your cat has mastered what you are teaching her, you can move on to the next exercise. For example, when you bring a kitten home, you can litter train it right away. When you’re done with that, start introducing the kitten to other pets, then teaching it to sit quietly while you brush its fur, and so on.

Go beyond one area

Once your cat has learned the command, practice it in different areas of your home. If you introduce a kitten to animals already living in the house, bringing them together only in the living room, he may think that another animal lives only in this space. There is no problem if your other animal is a fish, but if a kitten is dating a dog, he should understand that he can meet her in any other places in the house.

As with the litter box, some commands need to be taught in different places in the house. When you litter train your cat, you may need more than one litter box. When you wean your cat from scratching carpets and furniture, you need to do this in different places in your house, as he will find such items in several rooms.

Involve other people

If it’s just you and your cat living in the house, you don’t need to worry too much about involving other people in the training process. And if you still want your cat to be sociable, shortly after you bring her home, invite friends or family members to chat with the new pet. However, remind them not to show their superiority during this introduction. As with your short sessions, give your pet free rein.

If you bring a kitten into a large family, it is extremely important to involve everyone in the process of training. There are many reasons why the whole family should be involved in training, but the most important is interaction and relationship building. After all, a cat will see familiar faces every day! All family members should be clear about the learning objectives and the methods you will use to succeed.

Use a reward system

Good behavior rewards are a great motivator, especially during training. There are two types of rewards for your furry friend that you can try out. First, know that the cat will love any of your praise. Speak in a kind, cheerful voice and remind your cat that you are proud of her. Say, “What a nice kitty” and “Well done!” while stroking her fur so that she understands that these gestures mean that she did everything right.

Cats also love treats. If suddenly your pet has done what you wanted her to do, give her some Science Plan food. To do this, you can use the “clicker” system. When your cat executes the command correctly, turn on the tool that clicks, and then give a treat – a signal that the command was correctly executed. If a cat hears this click every time it performs an action correctly, it will learn to do what you teach it to do well.

If it doesn’t work

Learning does not happen overnight, and sometimes the pet will make mistakes. Can you teach a cat to correct mistakes? Certainly. But before you begin, you must come up with a plan to correct a mistake or put your cat on the right track when she doesn’t seem to want to. Punishment will not work here, because the animal simply does not understand why something does not work out for him. And because of the punishment, the cat can become isolated and just leave.

Never knock, shake hands or use physical punishment on a kitten during training. Keep your voice calm. If the animal feels threatened by you, the training will be useless, and the cat will be afraid of you.

If you need to correct an animal’s misbehavior (such as furniture scratching), try making a brief noise. It will not be useless if you repeat the same phrase every time: “Bam!” “Wow!” or “Meow!” The point is to get your cat alert and distracted from what it’s doing right now. Avoid words you use regularly, such as “no!” or “hey!”, as the cat may be confused by hearing them under other circumstances.

Cat training can be fun for the whole family. Be patient and kind and you will reach your goal.

Contributor Bio

Erin Ollila

Erin Ollila believes in the power of words and that her message can give people a lot and even change them. Her articles can be found all over the internet and in print, and include interviews, commissioned articles, blog posts, and creative non-fiction. Erin is a fan of SEO and all social media. She graduated from Fairfield University with a Master of Arts degree in creative writing. Follow her on Twitter @ReinventingErin or find out more at http://erinollila.com.

how, when and how to play with a cat

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Although domestic cats love to rest and nap, they also need to play and move. Find out why being active is important, how to play with your cat the right way, and how to find her favorite activity.

Not surprisingly, domestic cats move much less than outdoor cats. But play and exercise for cats are critical to their overall well-being. It’s important to find ways to tap into your pet’s natural animal instincts, and five minutes of intense play three times a day is recommended.

Why are exercises and games important?

Playing with your cat is not just an opportunity to bond with her, it’s a way to keep her healthy so you can spend more time together. Worldwide, rates of obesity in pets are on the rise, so by incorporating exercise into your cat’s daily routine, you can help your cat maintain healthy weight, tone muscles, and avoid diseases that come with obesity, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

In addition to being healthy, games and exercise also help your cat develop good habits. The game stimulates the cat in a positive way, preventing her from spoiling household items such as furniture or plants. They also teach good and bad times to play, and help keep you alert and active.

How much activity does a cat need?

Although your cat’s need for movement may vary depending on age, weight and current activity level, it is generally recommended to have at least three five-minute intense play sessions each day.

When you play with your cat, remember that they are predators by nature and these short, five-minute bursts of activity are comparable to how they hunt in the wild. Even domestic cats were born to climb, jump, hunt and chase. Don’t be afraid to tap into these animal instincts and mimic their natural behavior while playing.

How to train a cat correctly?

To find out whether your cat prefers to climb or chase, try different toys and activities in turn. This will help you see which ones she likes the most. It’s also good to change toys every couple of days so your cat doesn’t get bored.

And speaking of toys, here are some of our favorites:

• Cat trees: The perfect cat tree is a floor-to-ceiling structure made from a variety of materials that your cat can use for both climbing and combing. claws. Also, this tree is a great answer to how to train cats, as it provides an opportunity for effective training.
• Catnip Mice: Your cat is good at running, hunting for the toy like prey.
• Feather Stick: These toys imitate birds and cats love to hunt them. This kind of hunting is better than the real one, so you have a good way to take care of the wildlife! During the game, carry your cat, flutter and flutter with feathers of the toy, as if it were a bird.
• Cardboard boxes: Cats love to hide and jump into boxes. The advantage of such a toy is that, most likely, you already have it at home.