CUSTOM CAT CARE FROM SLEEP-EAS-ZZ…

As the cold of winter begins creeping into our routines, it becomes more difficult to want to go outside and be active –this is true for both people and pets. After all, there is a reason many of our furry (and some not so furry) friends hibernate! But, just because the temperatures get colder, it doesn’t negate the need to get some exercise but it does often leave us needing to find some alternatives.
Also of interest with winter weather, is that people are not the only ones who struggle with SAD (seasonal affective disorder) during the winter months with shorter days of less sunshine. Cats can also be affected and this can lead to an unhealthy lethargic lifestyle. So, this winter, try something different. We have 10 ideas to help your cat be active this winter—who knows, they might make winter more fun for you, too!
1. Turn your home into a feline jungle. Purchase a kitty tree to add more climbing space in your home. Cats love to have a bird’s eye view and the trees will provide this, as well as new places for your cat to perch on or even just sleep, during the day. An added benefit, the cat trees will keep your cat from climbing on your furniture.
2. Begin cat aerobics. No, you don’t need to take your cat to the gym with you, but little things like a ball dangling on a string or investing in some craft feathers to be chased or other cat toys that encourage movement will be better than long hours being dormant. Plus, your cat’s antics as they play will provide you with some extra laughs!
3. Make mealtimes more exciting. This doesn’t mean you feed them calorie laden foods, but it rather it means making mealtime more of an adventure. Consider hiding small portions of food around your home – place the food inside toys or small bowls-and help your cat hone her/his hunting skills. Feeding your cat like this will increase daily activity. More interesting is that studies have found that animals enjoy their food more when they have to work to find it.
4. Play hide and seek. Show your cat his favorite toy, and then place the toy somewhere they can see. When your cat retrieves the toy, reward him/her with a small snack and start again. As your cat begins to understand the game, make it harder to find the hiding spot.
5. Not only can you teach an older cat a new trick, but you might be surprised at how much they (and you) enjoy the process! Believe it or not, even cats can learn to sit, come, fetch and stay. Just 15 minutes a day and by winter’s end your cat could have several new skills that provided fun for the winter but also make future activities more fun, too.
6. Spa days aren’t just for people. There are many animal spas that help your pets relax. Specially trained massage therapist will gently massage their paws, necks and shoulders thus helping to release endorphins and increase beta-endorphins in plasma. This will help your cat feel better and can even help them stay healthy.
7. Try yoga. Yes, there are actually yoga forms especially for cats, and dogs, too! Yoga is great for helping your cat stay active and healthy during the winter.
8. Turn on the lights. Consider installing special lighting such as full spectrum or daylight bulbs that help focus the sun’s rays. The lights will help keep your cat from being depressed and lethargic due to a lesser amount of sunlight.
9. Go on a trip. If your cat is carrier trained, then a day trip or even a longer getaway is a great way to break up the monotony of being at home each day. The change of pace will be great for both of you! Not able to go away for a trip? Load up your cat, visit your local pet store and wander the aisles.
10. Get a puzzle feeder. These require your pet to work a bit for their snack, but without you needing to hide food around the house.
Using these ideas will help make the winter season much more fun for both you and your cat. Whether you rotate the ideas, use all of them or just some of them, these 10 activities can enrich your cat’s life and even build your relationship with your pet. The pet sitting pros at A1 Pets are eager to hear your ideas for entertaining your cat this winter. Feel free to share your ideas below!

Share this Article!