Indoor cats can lead long, healthy lives and are wonderful companions. While many cats feel comfortable living their lives inside, it’s important to note that without the natural stimulation of the outdoors, they may become bored or inactive, and you may not even know it’s happening. Maintaining your cat's physical and mental well-being is essential for their happiness and keeping your indoor cat active and healthy is an important part of keeping them happy. Keep reading for tips on how to instill an active and healthy lifestyle for your indoor cat.
Create vertical spaces in your home
Everyone who has ever owned a cat knows that cats love to climb and perch on high places, watching the world from above. Encouraging this type of behavior with cat trees, shelves, or even window perches give them plenty of indoor opportunities to jump, climb, and survey their surroundings. If you’re able, try and position one of these perches near a window to give them a spot for endless entertainment watching birds or squirrels outside. By enticing them to use these vertical spaces, you encourage movement and stimulation that might even become part of their daily routine.
Provide toys to play with and engage in playtime
As a pet owner, investing in a variety of toys can not only be a fun way for you to spoil your fur babies, but it is also a great way to encourage interaction. Since cats love to hunt, pounce, and chase, there are a few specific toys you may want to include in your bin of kitty toys at home. Interactive toys like feather wands or laser pointers are great for active play between you and your cat. Puzzle feeders challenge their minds and simulate hunting. Kick toys allow them to practice their natural bunny-kick motion.
Make sure to have a variety of toys at home and rotate them regularly to keep things exciting and prevent boredom. It’s also important that you make it a habit to play with your cat every day. Even 10-15 minutes a few times a day can help keep them active and mentally sharp and it’s a great opportunity for you to bond.
Implement and maintain a healthy diet
Eating healthy food that is the appropriate amount for the weight, age, and breed of your cat is essential for keeping them active. Since overweight cats are less likely to play, you’ll want to make sure they are having a balanced diet that prioritizes nutrition. If you’re not sure the best food or portion size to give them, make sure to consult your veterinarian.
Tips to improve your cat’s health
The AVMA suggests that you work with your veterinarian to make an honest assessment of your pet’s health and weight. From setting goals and adjusting food to cutting back on treats and making exercise fun and a priority, there are plenty of things you can do to help get your cat’s health back on track. With a personalized plan in place, you should continue to monitor progress and make any adjustments necessary so you can focus on what matters: your pet’s good health and long life.
Try one of the tips above and watch your cat’s energy and joy soar. If you have concerns about your cat’s activity level or health, schedule an appointment at Bregman Veterinary Group, by clicking here to get started and work with a veterinarian to create a tailored wellness plan.
