Do you have a kitty? Look at your feline friend, and observe what she’s doing right now. There’s a pretty good chance that she’s asleep. Kitties certainly do love their naps! However, all that shuteye isn’t doing your cat’s waistline any favors. In fact, Fluffy’s sleeping predilection plays a major role in feline obesity. Your pet may look adorable if she’s a bit pudgy, but she’ll be much healthier if she stays at or near her ideal weight. While diet plays a huge role in your furball’s weight, activity is also very important. But how do you convince a cat to work out? Below, a Marietta, GA vet discusses keeping kitties active.

Furniture

We know, Fluffy isn’t shy about using your furniture, but she’ll really enjoy having some things of her own. Choose pieces that promote activity, like cat trees and towers.

Play Sessions

Take time to play with your furry pal every day. Use a toy that you can control, such as a wand toy or laser pointer. Even just spending a few minutes pouncing and jumping will benefit your kitty.

Buddy

We don’t advocate getting another kitty for the sole purpose of keeping your cat in shape. After all, adopting a pet is a lifetime commitment, and not a decision to take lightly. That said, if you have the money and room for another furball, and if you think your feline friend will accept having another cat around, go for it! This may be a great option if Fluffy is still a kitten: your pets can grow up playing together!

Toys

Make sure your feline friend has lots of fun toys to play with. Give Fluffy a variety of playthings, from catnip mice to wand toys to rubber balls. You can also get your cat some cute modern kitty toys, like robotic mice or automated laser pointers.

Trickery

When dealing with cats, we sometimes have to resort to subterfuge. If you crumple up a piece of paper, and toss it down the hall, there’s a good chance Fluffy will run after it. Or, just call your kitty to you for no reason. Reward her with compliments and cuddles, so she doesn’t think you summoned her for nothing.

Do you know or suspect that your kitty needs to lose weight? Call us, your Marietta, GA animal clinic! We are here to help!