How can you keep your cat active and healthy. What are the best exercises for cats. Why is regular physical activity crucial for felines. Discover 12 engaging cat workouts and expert tips for feline fitness.

The Importance of Exercise for Cats: Maintaining Physical and Mental Health

Cats, like humans, require regular exercise to maintain optimal health. Physical activity helps cats maintain a healthy weight, stimulates their minds, and contributes to their overall well-being. But how much exercise does a cat need? The amount varies depending on factors such as age, breed, and individual personality.

Kittens and younger cats may require up to 10 play sessions daily, while older cats might benefit from 2-3 sessions. Each play session should last approximately 10-15 minutes. By incorporating exercise into your cat’s routine, you’re not only promoting physical health but also addressing their instinctual needs for hunting and play.

Benefits of Regular Cat Exercise

• Weight management
• Improved cardiovascular health
• Enhanced mental stimulation
• Reduced behavioral issues
• Strengthened bond between cat and owner

Expert Tips for Maximizing Your Cat’s Exercise Routine

To ensure your cat gets the most out of their exercise sessions, consider the following expert-recommended tips:

1. Timing is Everything

Cats are crepuscular creatures, meaning they’re most active during dawn and dusk. Scheduling playtime around these periods can lead to more enthusiastic participation from your feline friend. Additionally, incorporating exercise around mealtimes can add an extra layer of enrichment to their daily routine.

2. Keep Sessions Short but Frequent

Rather than one long play session, aim for multiple shorter sessions throughout the day. This approach mimics a cat’s natural hunting behavior and prevents boredom or exhaustion.

3. Read Your Cat’s Body Language

Pay attention to your cat’s signals during playtime. An interested cat will show eagerness to participate, with forward-facing ears and engaged body language. If your cat loses interest or walks away, it’s time to end the session. Remember, exercise should be enjoyable for your cat, not a chore.

4. Use Appropriate Toys

Avoid using your hands as toys, as this can lead to play aggression and potential injury. Instead, opt for specially designed cat toys that allow for safe interaction.

12 Engaging Cat Workouts to Try at Home

Now that we understand the importance of exercise for cats and how to approach it, let’s explore 12 fun and effective cat workouts you can implement at home:

1. Leash Training: Safe Outdoor Adventures

Can cats be walked on a leash? Absolutely! Some indoor cats enjoy stimulating walks outside, much like dogs. To start leash training your cat:

1. Choose a cat-specific harness that fits securely
2. Introduce the harness gradually indoors
3. Slowly increase wearing time
4. Begin with short outdoor sessions
5. Always prioritize your cat’s comfort and safety

Before venturing outdoors, ensure your cat is microchipped, wearing identification, and up-to-date on flea and tick prevention. If your cat shows signs of distress, discontinue leash training and explore other exercise options.

2. Clicker Training: Mental Stimulation and Physical Activity

Clicker training is an excellent way to provide both mental and physical stimulation for your cat. This positive reinforcement technique can teach cats various tricks and behaviors, such as sitting, giving a paw, or even meowing on command. The process of learning and performing these actions serves as a form of exercise and strengthens the bond between you and your feline companion.

3. Laser Pointer Play: Engaging the Hunter Instinct

Laser pointers are a popular tool for cat exercise, tapping into their natural hunting instincts. The quick, unpredictable movements of the laser dot encourage cats to run, jump, and pounce. However, it’s crucial to end each laser pointer session by allowing your cat to “catch” a physical toy. This prevents frustration and gives them a sense of accomplishment.

4. Puzzle Toys: Combining Mental and Physical Exercise

Puzzle toys offer a unique blend of mental and physical stimulation for cats. These toys often dispense treats or kibble as rewards for solving the puzzle, encouraging your cat to work for their food. This not only provides exercise but also slows down their eating rate, which can be beneficial for weight management.

5. Hidden Treats and Toys: Indoor Hunting Simulation

Hiding treats, food, or toys around your home creates an indoor “hunting” experience for your cat. This activity mimics their natural foraging behavior and encourages them to explore, climb, and search. Regularly rotate the hidden items to maintain your cat’s interest and provide ongoing stimulation.

6. Teaser and Wand Toys: Interactive Play Sessions

Wand toys, also known as fishing-pole toys, are excellent for interactive play sessions with your cat. These toys allow you to mimic the movement of prey, encouraging your cat to chase, pounce, and leap. The distance provided by the wand helps prevent play aggression and keeps your hands safe from scratches.

7. Electronic Toys: High-Energy Playtime

Electronic toys can provide high-energy playtime for cats, especially when you’re not available to play. These toys often feature erratic movements or sounds that capture a cat’s attention. While they’re great for independent play, it’s important to balance electronic toy use with interactive play sessions to maintain a strong bond with your cat.

Advanced Cat Exercise Options: Taking Feline Fitness to the Next Level

For cats that require more intense exercise or for owners looking to provide a wider range of activities, consider these advanced options:

8. Catnip Bubbles: Aromatic Chase Game

Catnip-infused bubbles offer a unique and engaging play experience for cats. The combination of movement, scent, and the satisfaction of popping bubbles can keep cats entertained and active. This activity is particularly beneficial for cats who respond well to catnip.

9. Catios: Safe Outdoor Exploration

A catio, or cat patio, is an enclosed outdoor space that allows cats to experience the stimulation of the outdoors while remaining safe. Catios can range from simple window boxes to elaborate outdoor structures. They provide opportunities for climbing, sunbathing, and observing nature, all of which contribute to a cat’s physical and mental well-being.

10. Shelves and Perches: Vertical Exercise

Cats naturally enjoy high vantage points, which allow them to survey their territory. Installing cat shelves and perches around your home encourages vertical movement, promoting jumping and climbing. When setting up these spaces, ensure they are sturdy and placed in safe areas to prevent accidents.

11. Cat Trees: Multi-Functional Exercise Stations

Cat trees serve multiple purposes in feline exercise. They provide vertical space for climbing, scratching posts for natural scratching behavior, and cozy spots for resting. A well-designed cat tree can encourage a variety of movements and activities, making it an excellent investment for your cat’s fitness.

12. Cat Exercise Wheels: Feline Cardio Equipment

Cat exercise wheels, similar to hamster wheels but larger, offer an excellent option for high-intensity cardio workouts. These wheels allow cats to run at their own pace, providing a great energy outlet, especially for highly active breeds or indoor cats with limited space.

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

While exercise is crucial for all cats, it’s important to tailor activities to your individual cat’s needs. Factors such as age, health status, and personality should all be taken into account when developing an exercise routine.

Exercise for Senior Cats

Older cats may have less energy and potentially some joint issues, but they still benefit from regular, gentle exercise. Focus on low-impact activities such as:

• Gentle play with soft toys
• Short, easy-to-solve puzzle games
• Slow-moving teaser toys

Always consult with your veterinarian to ensure the exercises are appropriate for your senior cat’s health status.

Exercising Cats with Health Issues

Cats with certain health conditions may require modified exercise routines. For example, cats with arthritis might benefit from swimming or gentle stretching exercises under veterinary guidance. Overweight cats may need a gradual increase in activity levels combined with dietary changes. Always work closely with your vet to develop a safe exercise plan for cats with health issues.

Adapting to Your Cat’s Personality

Some cats are naturally more active than others. While a high-energy Bengal might thrive with an exercise wheel and frequent play sessions, a more laid-back Persian might prefer gentler activities. Observe your cat’s preferences and energy levels to create a routine that they enjoy and will stick to.

The Role of Diet in Cat Exercise: Fueling Feline Fitness

A balanced diet plays a crucial role in supporting your cat’s exercise routine. Proper nutrition provides the energy needed for physical activity and helps maintain a healthy weight. Consider the following dietary factors when implementing an exercise program for your cat:

Calorie Control

As you increase your cat’s activity level, you may need to adjust their calorie intake. Work with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate amount of food based on your cat’s age, weight, and activity level.

Protein-Rich Diets

Cats are obligate carnivores and require diets high in animal protein. Ensure your cat’s food contains high-quality protein sources to support muscle maintenance and energy levels during exercise.

Hydration

Proper hydration is essential for active cats. Encourage water intake by providing fresh water in multiple locations and considering wet food as part of their diet.

Monitoring Your Cat’s Exercise Progress: Signs of Success and When to Adjust

As you implement an exercise routine for your cat, it’s important to monitor their progress and make adjustments as needed. Look for the following signs of success:

• Improved energy levels and playfulness
• Maintenance of a healthy weight
• Better sleep patterns
• Reduced behavioral issues
• Improved coat condition

If you notice any negative changes, such as excessive fatigue, reluctance to play, or signs of pain, consult your veterinarian immediately. Regular check-ups can help ensure your cat’s exercise routine remains appropriate for their changing needs over time.

Creating a Cat-Friendly Exercise Environment: Beyond Toys and Equipment

While toys and specific exercise equipment are important, creating an overall cat-friendly environment can encourage natural exercise throughout the day. Consider the following elements:

Vertical Space

In addition to cat trees and shelves, consider other ways to add vertical interest to your home. This might include:

• Tall scratching posts
• Window perches
• Wall-mounted platforms

These additions encourage climbing and jumping, providing passive exercise opportunities.

Interactive Feeding Stations

Transform mealtime into an exercise opportunity by using:

• Food-dispensing toys
• Elevated feeding platforms
• Multiple small feeding locations

These methods encourage movement and mental stimulation during feeding times.

Safe Outdoor Access

If a full catio isn’t feasible, consider other ways to provide safe outdoor experiences:

• Screened windows
• Balcony enclosures
• Supervised backyard time (for appropriate cats)

Even limited outdoor access can provide valuable sensory stimulation and encourage natural behaviors.

Addressing Common Challenges in Cat Exercise: Overcoming Obstacles

Implementing a regular exercise routine for cats can come with challenges. Here are some common issues and strategies to address them:

Lack of Interest

If your cat seems uninterested in exercise:

• Try a variety of toys and activities to find what appeals to them
• Use high-value treats as motivation
• Keep sessions short and engaging
• Experiment with different times of day for play

Remember, every cat is unique, and it may take time to find activities that resonate with your pet.

Multi-Cat Households

In homes with multiple cats, consider:

• Providing individual play sessions for each cat
• Using toys that allow multiple cats to play simultaneously
• Creating separate exercise areas to prevent competition

Ensure each cat has the opportunity to engage in activities they enjoy without interference from feline housemates.

Limited Space

For those in small living spaces:

• Focus on vertical space with wall-mounted shelves and perches
• Use compact exercise equipment like small cat wheels
• Implement creative play ideas that maximize limited floor space

Even in tight quarters, there are numerous ways to keep your cat active and engaged.

The Future of Feline Fitness: Emerging Trends and Technologies

As our understanding of feline health and behavior evolves, so do the methods and tools available for cat exercise. Here are some emerging trends to watch:

Virtual Reality for Cats

While still in early stages, researchers are exploring the potential of cat-friendly virtual reality experiences. These could provide indoor cats with simulated outdoor environments and hunting experiences, offering mental and physical stimulation.

Smart Toys

Advancements in technology are leading to the development of increasingly sophisticated interactive toys. These may include features such as:

• Adaptive play patterns based on your cat’s preferences
• Remote control options for owner engagement
• Integration with smart home systems for scheduled play sessions

As these technologies develop, they may offer new ways to keep cats engaged and active, even when owners are away.

Feline Fitness Tracking

Similar to human fitness trackers, devices designed to monitor cat activity levels are becoming more advanced. These tools can help owners and veterinarians:

• Track daily activity levels
• Monitor sleep patterns
• Identify potential health issues early

By providing detailed data on a cat’s movements and behaviors, these trackers can help in developing more tailored exercise and health plans.

As we continue to explore new ways to keep our feline friends healthy and active, it’s important to remember that the basics of cat care remain crucial. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and plenty of love and attention will always be the foundation of feline well-being. By staying informed about new developments and combining them with time-tested methods, we can ensure our cats lead happy, healthy, and active lives.

Exercise for Cats: 12 Cat Workouts That Are Fun for Cats

Do cats need exercise? Of course! When cats are exercising, they’re helping maintain a healthy weight and also getting stimulation to keep them emotionally and behaviorally healthy.

Here are some tips on how to exercise your cats along with some cat workouts that will be fun for cats and for you.

Tips for How to Exercise Your Cat

Follow these tips for maximizing your cat playtime sessions and making sure your cat gets plenty of exercise.

Schedule Exercise for Cats When They Are Most Active

Cats are most active at dawn and dusk, so scheduling play around these times may help keep them more interested. You can also schedule playtime around their meals so that you can incorporate food into their daily enrichment.

Keep Play Sessions Short

Play sessions should be about 10-15 minutes each and can range from two to three daily sessions for older cats to up to 10 sessions for kittens and younger cats.

Know Your Cat’s Signals for Not Wanting to Play

Don’t worry, your cat will let you know if they are interested in playing. A bored cat will walk away or show no interest in toys.

An interested kitty will be eager to participate, bat around cat toys, chase a laser pointer, and respond positively to interaction with you (no biting/scratching/hissing, ears forward, etc.).

If your cat begins panting or breathing too heavily, let them rest before resuming play. Remember: playtime is meant to be fun for cats!

Cat Workouts to Try With Your Cat

It is very important to avoid using your hands when playing with cats and kittens especially. This can lead to play aggression and lots of scratches! Instead, try some of these ideas for cat workouts:

Leash Training

Just like dogs, some indoor cats will enjoy stimulating walks outside. If you want to try walking your cat, it’s important to get a harness that your cat can’t wriggle out of. There are even harnesses made specifically for walking cats.

You can start by easing your cat into wearing the harness indoors and slowly increasing the amount of time they spend in their new gear. However, do not keep trying to get your cat to walk on a leash if they are not comfortable.

Make sure your cat is microchipped and that your contact info is up to date in the database. It also helps to have a tag with your contact info on their harness in case they happen to get away. Also make sure your cat is current on flea and tick prevention before you take them outside.

Clicker Training

Training your cat to sit, give paw, or meow using clicker training can be a great bonding experience and can provide enrichment for both your kitty and you.

Laser Pointers

Using a laser pointer is a great way to get your cat moving.

NOTE: Be sure to end every laser pointer session by giving your cat a toy that they can actually get their paws on! This will allow them to feel as though they have “caught their prey. ”

Cat Puzzle Toys

Puzzle toys keep your cat active and provide positive reinforcement at the same time. Using puzzle toys to dole out pieces of dry food can also help slow down their rate of eating while keeping them engaged.

Hidden Treats, Food, and Toys

Just like puzzle toys, hiding treats, food, and toys can help cats feel like they’re hunting for their food as they would in the wild. Be sure to constantly switch out old cat toys for new ones to keep them interested!

Teaser and Wand Toys

Wand toys (or fishing-pole toys) can allow for interactive play without leading to play aggression. This keeps your cat at a safe distance from your hands and allows them to feel like they’re pouncing on and chasing their prey.

Electronic Toys

Electronic toys are fun for cats, and they provide a high-energy playtime. They can be very helpful in keeping cats entertained, but they should be interspersed with other kinds of interactive play.

Catnip Bubbles

Some cats enjoy chasing and popping bubbles. There are even bubbles that are infused with catnip to keep kitties even more intrigued.

Catios

Creating an enclosed and stimulating outdoor environment will give your cat an opportunity to explore the outdoors while remaining active, and most importantly, safe.

Shelves and Perches

Cats love to watch the world from above! This gives them a safer vantage point for hunting in the wild. Providing vertical spaces like window shelves and perches not only gives them an ideal spot to observe from, but can encourage them to jump and climb. Please ensure that these vertical spaces are sturdy and in a safe area.

Cat Trees

Cat trees can also provide elevated rest or play areas for your kitty. Many cat trees also have scratching posts that encourage healthy scratching behaviors.

Cat Exercise Wheels

Cat wheels offer an excellent way for cats to get their cardio! If you’re not sure if your cat will use an exercise wheel, the manufacturers usually offer training materials to help you encourage your cat to try it.

Featured Image: iStock.com/CasarsaGuru

WRITTEN BY

Krista Seraydar, DVM

Veterinarian

Dr. Krista Seraydar was born and raised in South Florida. She is a graduate of the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine…

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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 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.

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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.