If you’re like most cat owners, you want to make sure your feline friend is as healthy as possible. And one of the best ways to do that is by exercising regularly.

Some easy ways to exercise your cat include playing with his favorite toy or giving him a new hiding spot to explore. You can also make use of puzzle feeders or scratching posts to give him a little workout. By providing your cat with some regular exercise, you can help keep him healthy and prevent obesity and other health problems. Here are eight tips on how to best exercise your cat.

1. Start by getting your cat comfortable with being around you

One of the best ways to build a bond with your cat is simply to spend time together. Get your cat comfortable with being around you by sitting or lying down near them, petting them when they approach, and speaking to them in a soft voice. You can also offer them treats as a way of positive reinforcement. Once your cat is comfortable with your presence, you can start to engage in activities like playing with toys, grooming, or even training. By getting to know each other, you and your cat can develop a strong bond that will last a lifetime.

2. Provide some toys for your cat to play with

Cats are curious creatures and love to explore their surroundings. Providing them with various toys is essential to keep your cat entertained and engaged. Cat toys come in all shapes and sizes, from simple balls and wand toys to more complex puzzle toys. You can even make your own cat toys using household items. For example, a crumpled-up piece of paper can make an excellent chasing toy, or you can fill an empty box with catnip for your cat to play in.

There are many different types of cat toys available on the market, so it’s important to choose ones that will suit your cat’s personality and needs. Some cats prefer to play with simple toys like ping pong balls or crinkle balls, while others prefer more complex toys that they can claw and bat around. There are also many interactive cat toys available, such as remote-controlled mice. Whatever type of toy you choose, it’s important to make sure that it is safe for your cat to play with and that there are no small parts that they can swallow and anything that can injure their claws or teeth. With a bit of trial and error, you’re sure to find the perfect type of toy to keep your cat entertained and engaged. And to find one that will suit your cat’s individual personality and needs.

3. Get a scratching post

A scratching post is an essential piece of equipment for any cat owner. It provides your cat with a place to scratch, but it also helps to keep their claws healthy and sharp. Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, and it helps keep their claws from getting overgrown. It also gives them a chance to stretch their muscles and relieve stress. However, not all scratching posts are created equal. When choosing a scratching post for your cat, make sure that it is tall enough for them to stretch fully; and that the material is sturdy enough to withstand their vigorous scratching. Otherwise, you may find yourself replacing the post frequently. With a bit of research, you can find the perfect scratching post for your feline friend and help them to stay healthy and happy. Pick a material that your cat enjoys scratching, such as rope, carpet, or sisal. Your cat will thank you

for giving them a scratching post!

4. Give your cat plenty of space to roam and explore

Cats are curious creatures by nature, and they love to explore their surroundings. If your cat is all the time indoors, it can get dull and restless. It’s important to give it plenty of space to roam and explore to keep your cat happy and healthy. An excellent way to do this is to create a safe outdoor area for your cat to enjoy. It can be done by fencing in a portion of your yard or setting up a catio. You should also provide your cat with plenty of toys and climbing options inside your home. By giving your cat plenty of space to roam and explore, you’ll help satisfy its natural curiosity and prevent boredom.

5. Use a toy that they can chase or bat at a piece of string

Cats are natural hunters, and they love to chase after prey. To keep your cat entertained and exercised, try using a toy they can chase or bat. A piece of string is the perfect size and shape for a cat to catch, and it’s easy to create your own cat toy by tying a piece of string to a small object. You can also purchase cat toys that are specifically designed for chasing and batting. These toys usually have feathers or other materials that will move when they are struck, making them even more irresistible to cats. When choosing a cat toy, make sure to select one that is the appropriate size for your cat. Toys that are too small can pose a choking hazard, while too large toys may be difficult for your cat to catch.

6. Play games like ‘fetch’ where you throw a small object, and your cat brings it back to you

People often think of cats as being aloof and independent. Still, the truth is that they can be just as loving and affectionate as any other pet. One way to bond with your cat is to play games together. A favorite among cats is “fetch.” Like a dog, you throw a small object (a toy, a ball of paper, etc.), and your cat brings it back to you. This simple game helps to build your relationship with your cat, but it also provides them with much-needed exercise. So next time you’re looking for a fun way to spend some time with your feline friend, give “fetch” a try.

7. Avoid games with hands

While games like ” pat the kitty ” might seem harmless fun, it’s important to avoid playing them with your cat. Though your cat might enjoy the attention, games that involve hands can cause anxiety and stress. Cats are natural predators, and the back of a human hand can resemble the head of a small animal. As a result, games that involve hands can trigger a predatory response in your cat, leading to scratches or bites. In addition, games that require you to move your hand quickly can startle your cat and cause him to lash out in self-defense. For these reasons, it’s best to stick to games that don’t involve hands when playing with your feline friend.

8. What about the laser pointer?

While it may be tempting to entertain your cat with a laser pointer, it is important to avoid doing so. For one thing, chasing the elusive dot of light can be frustrating for cats, leading to stress and behavioral problems. In addition, laser pointers can be harmful to cats’ eyesight. The high-intensity light can damage the retina and cause vision problems. So instead of using a laser pointer, try playing with your cat with a toy that they can catch. It will provide them with much-needed exercise and avoid any potential health problems.

So if you want to keep your feline friend happy and healthy, it’s best to avoid the laser pointer altogether.

BONUS : Exercise with a Cat wheel

For cat owners looking for a new way to keep their feline friend entertained, cat wheels are a great and engaging option. These large, rotating wheels provide cats with an endless source of fun and exercise. What’s more, cat wheels are completely safe and easy to use. Simply place your cat in the wheel and let them go! With a cat wheel in your home, you can be sure that your cat will always have something to do. 

Tip : Feed your cat the right food and provide fresh water daily

Anytime your cat is playing, it’s a good idea to have fresh water available. Similar to humans, cats need hydration after physical activity to replenish what they lost through sweat. If your cat doesn’t drink enough water, they could become dehydrated; which can lead to health problems such as urinary tract infections or kidney disease. Even if your cat doesn’t seem thirsty, provide fresh water daily. Many cats prefer running water, so you might consider investing in a pet water fountain. By making hydration easy and enjoyable for your cat, you can help keep them healthy and hydrated for years to come

Also, after an energetic play session, your cat will be hungry and looking for food. While it might be tempting to give your fur baby a treat, it’s important to provide a nutritious meal to help him recover from his exertion. A good post-playtime meal for your cat should include protein and carbohydrates. Some easy-to-digest options include cooked chicken, canned tuna, or boiled eggs. If you’re not sure what to feed your cat after playtime, talk to your veterinarian for guidance. You can help ensure that your cat stays happy and healthy by offering the right food.

Playing games with your cat is a great way to bond and provide them with much-needed exercise. In addition, by providing fresh water and a nutritious meal after playtime, you can help keep your cat healthy and happy. So next time you’re looking for something fun to do with your feline friend, try playing one of their favorite games!