Our feline friends are collectively very, very tired. Kitties can spend up to 20 hours a day sleeping, though most of them settle for a ‘mere’ 14 to 16. Fluffy’s napping predilection is of course adorable, but it can make it easy for her to gain weight. That puts her at risk of some very dangerous medical issues. How does one keep a cat in shape? A Bellevue, WA vet offers some tips on this below.

Toys

Toys and playtime are important for pets both mentally and physically. Offer your furry buddy lots of fun toys. Cats all have their own unique tastes here: some like catnip toys, while others prefer small balls or squeaky toys. Offer your kitty a variety, and pay attention to what she seems to like. 

Playtime

Interactive play is both more fun and more challenging for Fluffy than simply batting a ball around. Take time to play with your feline pal regularly. Hold a laser pointer for her to chase, or dangle a feather toy in front of her. Even a few minutes of playtime will be beneficial. This is easy to work into your TV-watching time. (Bonus: this will also help your cat feel loved.)

Proper Food

Exercise plays a big role in Fluffy’s weight, but it isn’t the only factor. Your kitty will need good, nourishing food. Of course, cats are very good at wrapping their humans around their paws, and getting us to feed them on demand. You may need to steel yourself a bit. If your furry friend is getting chubby, but gets extremely theatrical whenever she spots the bottom of her food bowl, that cute meow could be a lie!  

Furniture

Let Fluffy’s inquisitive, curious nature work to her advantage. Get your feline buddy some things that encourage her to jump, climb, or run. Cat towers are great for that.  You can even get kitty exercise wheels!

Trickery

Another way to keep cats moving? Toss a toy or paper ball across the room or down the hall. Most kitties will instinctively run after it. These little things add up!

Tips

It’s worth noting that outdoor cats get more activity than indoor ones. However, we don’t recommend letting kitties out. She’ll be both safer and healthier inside!

Do you have any questions about your cat’s health or care? Contact us, your local Bellevue, WA animal clinic, today!