Introduction:
Cats also need exercise. As in humans, a sedentary lifestyle can have negative effects on physical and mental health. But how much exercise your cat really needs depends on your cat's specific condition. Here's why cats need exercise and how to provide the necessary resources.
How Much Exercise Do Cats Need Per Day?
Cats typically need about 30 minutes of exercise per day to stay healthy and happy. However, this may vary depending on the cat's age, breed, lifestyle and personal personality. Some cats may be happy with brief periods of activity, while others may require more intense playtime or a structured exercise routine.
All cats sleep a lot, but kittens typically sleep about 18 to 22 hours a day and tend to stay active when awake. Most kittens are energetic and need an hour or more of exercise each day. The good news is that as long as you provide enough toys and games, your kitten will likely play enough to get the exercise he needs.
In the wild, cats move naturally through hunting and play (which is basically just hunting practice). Therefore, cats exposed to nature tend to get more exercise than indoor cats. However, even if you have limited space in your home, an enriched environment can still provide your indoor cat with the exercise it needs.
Importance of Exercise for Cats
Regular exercise is an important part of a healthy lifestyle for cats. It helps keep them physically and mentally healthy and promotes overall health. 1 Encouraging exercise and play can also help prevent behavioral problems such as destructive chewing and scratching.
Cats spend a lot of time sleeping, lounging, and grooming, and are prone to brief bursts of energy during the day and night. Provide your cat with opportunities for physical activity and mental stimulation through toys, scratching posts, and interactive games with people.
Physical Benefits
Exercise helps cats burn calories and maintain a healthy weight. This helps prevent obesity and reduces the risk of related health problems such as diabetes and arthritis. 2 Additionally, exercise helps maintain and enhance your cat's muscle tone and strength. 3 This is especially important for older cats, as they may be more susceptible to obesity. Muscle atrophy and weakness.
Mental Benefits
Cats benefit from exercise because it stimulates their minds and keeps them from becoming bored, anxious, or depressed, which can result in destructive behavior and other behavioral issues. Cats can stay cognitively busy and sharp by playing with interactive toys or games. Frequent play and exercise helps avoid behavioral issues, lower stress and anxiety, and promote social contact between pets and people.
5 Easy Exercise Ideas for Cats
Interactive Cat Toys
Cats can play independently with interactive toys like food puzzles and battery-operated toys. While some cats enjoy batting tiny toys like balls or catnip mice around, others become disinterested if they are unable to play with the object. For cats who are motivated by food, interactive toys that distribute food or have hidden chambers are a terrific idea. Use vet-approved low-calorie treats in these toys if your cat needs to lose weight, or think about using them for mealtimes! It's a terrific idea to make a cat struggle for its food in order to encourage weight loss and cerebral stimulation.
Cat Trees
Cat trees give cats an outdoor experience inside the security of the house. For hours, they can stretch, climb, and itch. For several cats, it's also a fantastic opportunity for them to socialize.
Wand Toys
Humans play with cats using wand toys. When their owner pulls out the feather teaser or the bird-on-a-stick, a lot of cats go crazy. This kind of play is fantastic since it strengthens your relationship with your cat.
Scratching Posts
Cats can exercise their paws, keep their nails healthy, and stretch their muscles by using scratching posts and mats. We may not think of using a scratcher as exercise, yet it's similar to cat yoga.
Exercise Wheels
Exercise wheels resemble enormous hamster wheels. If you have the room and your cat enjoys running, an exercise wheel might be quite beneficial. To ensure your cat's safety, make sure you buy yours from a reliable supplier.
If your cats get along, they could be good playmates for other household pets. A playmate, however, cannot replace human connection and environmental enrichment. Regardless of the number of animals you own, each one needs special care in addition to the toys and accessories that follow their personalities.
FAQs
How can I know my cat is exercising enough?
When a cat isn't given enough exercise and stimulation, it might develop behavioral problems including destructive gnawing, scratching, and urinating outside of the litter box. Additionally, they might put on weight or lose muscle. Each cat has different demands when it comes to exercise, so discuss your cat's specific requirements with your veterinarian.
