How To Get Your Cat to Exercise Daily

We all know how important it is to include exercise in our daily routine. In fact, when trying to lose weight, diet is not enough. You have to get moving to expend the calories and shed the pounds. And the same can be said for our cats. 

But how can you exercise your overweight cat when they don’t love moving?  It is not only important for overweight cats to get exercise, but all cats need a good daily dose of exercise.

Cats, like dogs, need daily interactive play and exercise. The good news is that it’s normal for cats to be active in short bursts. If you can work exercising your cat for a few minutes a day – morning and night, they will be more agile and hopefully lose some weight.

Why Exercise Matters for All Cats

Cats may seem like low-maintenance pets, lounging around the house and napping the day away. But, like all animals, they need regular physical activity to stay healthy and happy. Exercise helps prevent obesity, reduce behavioral problems, and support overall well-being in cats.

Below are why cats need exercise on a daily basis, just like humans and dogs:

Weight Management:

Many cats are prone to weight gain, especially indoor cats who may not have much space to roam.  Further, cats on a dry food diet are especially susceptible to weight gain. Regular exercise helps burn calories and prevents obesity, which is linked to health issues like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease.

Mental Stimulation:

Cats are natural hunters with strong instincts to chase, stalk, and pounce. Physical activity provides mental stimulation, keeping boredom at bay and reducing destructive behaviors.

Physical Health:

Exercise supports muscle tone, joint flexibility, and cardiovascular health. Just like with humans, keeping a cat active can improve overall quality of life.

Reducing Stress and Anxiety:

Regular play helps cats release energy, making them feel more relaxed and secure. It’s especially helpful for cats in multi-pet households or those prone to anxiety.

How to Get Your Cat Moving & Exercising

Cats are nocturnal in nature and that is when they have the most energy. Try to have your nighttime workout as a standard. It is when they are most likely to engage and join you in your work out! If they are active in the morning than try some sessions, then! Even better – try to incorporate two exercise sessions into their routine.

There are so many different ways to get your cat moving – each morning and night:

Interactive Toys:

Toys like feather wands, laser pointers, and automatic ball chasers can mimic the movements of prey. Try different options to see which toy piques your cat’s interest and be sure to rotate toys regularly to keep things fresh. Cats are natural predators and love to jump and run when enticed.

Create a Cat Obstacle Course:

Set up an obstacle course at home using everyday items. Boxes, cushions, tunnels, and even paper bags can be arranged for your cat to explore and navigate. Adding healthy treats (or simply a good rub-down) along the way can make it more enticing. Cats love new things and even a simple toilet paper roll or a ping pong ball can pique their interest.

Puzzle Feeders:

Puzzle feeder toys are a great way to engage a cat’s mind and encourage movement as they work to access food. Some cats will happily bat around a puzzle feeder or treat ball, satisfying their curiosity and hunting instinct. If your cat is overweight, try limiting the treat-filled toys!

Laser Pointer Games

Laser pointers can be an excellent tool to get cats to chase and pounce, but always end the game with a tangible reward, like a treat or toy. This keeps your cat from feeling frustrated by “catching” nothing.

Invest in Climbing Trees & Cat Furniture:

Cats love to climb and explore vertical spaces, which taps into their natural instincts. A cat tree or wall-mounted shelves can give your cat a space to climb, jump, and scratch.

Try Catnip or Silvervine Toys:

If your cat is responsive to catnip or silvervine, toys infused with these substances can be excellent motivators. They’re especially useful for getting older or more sedentary cats moving.

Play Hide and Seek:

Hide treats or small toys around the house for your cat to discover. This not only keeps them moving but also stimulates their sense of smell and curiosity.

Use a Wand Toy for Training Sessions:

You can use a feather wand or similar toy to practice basic commands like “jump” or “sit” while encouraging your cat to move. Yes, you can train a cat! This helps with exercise and improves the bond between you and your cat.

Walk Your Cat On A Leash – If Your Cat Tolerates It!

While it’s not for every cat, some cats take to leash walking quite well, especially if introduced to it gradually. Using a specially designed cat harness and a lightweight leash, you can take your cat for a walk outside. Leash walking can give cats a chance to safely explore new sights, smells, and sounds, adding a unique form of mental and physical enrichment.

Every cat is different, so it may take time to figure out what type of activity they enjoy. Making exercise part of your cat’s daily routine can lead to a healthier, happier pet, and it can also be a fun way for you to bond with them!