As part of the 30-Day Challenge, you and your cat should ‘get off the sofa’ and get active for 30 minutes each day. There are so many benefits for both you and your cat when you add some activity to your day.
Print your own copy of our Exercise Tracker
here.
Exercise helps keep cats healthy, agile and limber. ‘Couch potato’ cats are prone to joint issues, heart disease, diabetes and other health problems.
Playing together can strengthen the relationship between you and your cat, and also act as a fantastic stress relief. It’s actually lots of fun!
Other benefits that come with regular exercise are the reduction or elimination of common behaviours such as clawing, excessive meowing and hyperactivity. It also helps prevent boredom and depression by allowing them to channel their energy in a positive direction.
A little play with your cat every day lets you build a stronger bond. Plus your cat can gain confidence in its home.
It’s exercise that doesn’t feel like It. So get off the couch and get active for 30 minutes a day.
- Use a laser light or torch for your cat to chase. Turn it on and off to make the ‘prey’ appear and disappear to keep your cat guessing. But be sure to let your cat win; let them score a direct hit and savour the thrill of victory!
- A ping pong ball or piece of crumpled paper can get your cat swiping and racing around like a kitten.
- Make some great toys using things you already have at home: wads of paper, straws and plastic rings from milk bottles. Then make the toy come to life! Pretend the toy is frightened by your kitty. Make it run away, hide around the corner, freeze and seek cover under the rug. Subtle moves are the best. (Be sure to put the toys away when playtime is over, so your cat doesn’t tire of them.)
- Cats love to play with empty boxes. Let the kids help by building forts for your cat.
- Tunnels, cat trees and scratch posts keep your cat entertained.
- Position a birdfeeder outside a window where your cat has to jump up to get a good view.
- So get out there, get healthy and have fun!
We recommend any new exercise plan is discussed with your vet to make sure it is suitable for your pet’s age and body condition.