Unlike the time and effort it takes to walk a dog, providing your cat exercise can be done at random moments during the day. Cat training keeps a cat’s mind sharp, encourages strength and flexibility, and is an excellent way to encourage a strong relationship with your pet. The following suggestions, from the Ralston Purina Company’s 2000 booklet, “Vitality for Life: Pet Healthy and Fitness Guide,” can help your cat live a full life.
Games for Cats
Simple games and activities challenge a cat’s hunting instincts. A cat that gets challenged mentally will be less inclined to claw, scratch, and chew on objects out of boredom. If your cat disturbs you while you’re trying to sleep, consider playing with your cat before your bedtime to burn up some excess cat energy. If the cat still wakes you, don’t play or feed her as this rewards poor behavior.
Line up three paper cups and allow your cat to watch you hide a treat under one of the cups. Allow the cat to tip over the cups to find the treat. After a while, hide the treat, then move the cups around before allowing the cat to tip over the cups.
Shine a flashlight or laser pointer on the wall and floor so the cat can chase the light. Play hide-and-seek or peek-a-boo with the cat when she’s in the room and aware of your presence. This will entice the cat’s hunting instincts.
Show a cat a toy and then hide it behind a pillow or under a lightweight blanket or rug. This tests the cat’s memory as to where the object went.
Cat Training for Agility
Although cats are naturally graceful animals, toys that move quickly and behave like prey will best capture a cat’s mind and test its physical prowess. Rotate toys and games to keep your pet’s interest. Toys can be as simple as a piece of wadded-up paper or aluminum foil. Toss it to your cat when he’s in a room with linoleum or wood floors as the sound will be more enticing.
When your cat is lying down (but not sleeping), toss a toy near the cat, encouraging her to bat it with her paws. Dangle feathers or other toys on a stick near the cat to persuade quick movements, stretching, and jumping. Run or walk quickly while holding one of these toys, or a piece of yarn, to prod your pet into tracking you around the room or the house.
Interacting with one’s cat in order to challenge the animal’s body and mind also allows a pet and her person (or people) to develop a stronger bond while aiding the cats' health. Even taking a minute to pat or brush a cat, or sitting near your cat while reading or watching television allows you to both enrich the other’s life.
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