Exercise for Your Cat

Most people would not consider that pets need exercising. Dogs love their daily walk, but how about Fluffy? She too needs to get enough exercise to keep her health and weight in control. Many options are available that will help her to maintain her kitty figure while still having fun.

1. Cat wheels. Mice have wheels so why not their biggest foe, the cat. Various merchants sell cat wheels. Only you will know if your cat would be interested in playing in a wheel. If so, this might prove the perfect exercise for her.

2. Walking. This simple exercise benefits both kitty and her owner. A collar and leash will be uncomfortable for your cat if not fitted right, so contact a local pet supply store or online merchant and purchase an appropriately sized cat harness. It may take some training, but before long your cat will be begging for her daily walks.

3. Purchase a variety of toys. The key to her exercise with her various toys is owner interaction. That's right, you will have to be an active participant in her play. Being a kid is fun, once in a while. Get on the floor and roll a ball and watch her bat it. You might have to be the catalyst to start the game. Drag a string around the house or tie her favorite toy to a string to encourage her to move and chase the toy.

4. Be creative. By knowing my cat , I have learned what games she likes to play. Your cat may not enjoy the same games as mine, but trial and error will show which games she likes. My cat loves to hide behind the bathroom door and jump for a string held just out of her reach. She also has taken to jumping in and out of the tub, while I hide on the other side and pull a string or her favorite toy. She also is the first cat I have ever seen that loves to play hide and seek.

5. Create home made toys. Bags, boxes, tunnels, large pipes, old dresser drawers and unique hiding places tickle a cat's fancy. Place several of these home made toys throughout your home to encourage your cat to play. Boxes are great for encouraging cats to jump in and out of. Any sort of safe homemade toy that encourages your cat to move will work.

Try to plan an exercise routine around your cat and her preferences. If she does not like to walk, do not force daily walks. On the other hand, your kitty may enjoy chasing balls or playing hide and seek. Knowing your cat is the key to planning an exercise routine both she and her master will enjoy.