Published by Leonardo Calcagno
As a cat owner, you know cats like to do their own thing. When cats spend time indoors, they will likely find the comfiest spot in their home and curl up to nap and relax. However, like humans, cats need to maintain their health through exercise and a healthy diet, as a sedentary lifestyle can lead to excess weight.
According to PetMD, feline obesity is a common disease that affects up to 63 percent of cats. It can pose significant health risks, such as a weakened immune system, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis.
If you’re concerned about your furry friend’s weight, level of activity, or lack of interested in things, focus on making a few changes to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle. Consider the following fitness tips to help keep your feline friend healthy and happy.
Provide Opportunities for Exercise
Cats are natural hunters and love to play. However, lacking motivation to play at home or limited access to toys can affect their enthusiasm and result in laziness. To encourage your cat to get on their feet and run around, provide them with plenty of opportunities to play and exercise, as this will help them maintain their physical and mental health. Consider playing together to keep your cat engaged, strengthening your relationship with your fur baby.
You can also purchase toys such as balls, mice, and interactive toys that stimulate your cat’s hunting instincts. Another great way to keep your cat active is by hiding treats in different places in your home for them to find. Since cats are natural hunters, hiding treats can motivate them to be active, which provides exercise and a sense of adventure.
Monitor Their Diet
Feeding your cat a balanced diet is essential for their health. Ensure your cat receives the proper amount of nutrients and calories for their age, weight, and activity level. If your current food results in weight gain, consider other options, such as raw food from Bold by Nature. Explore the raw cat food on BoldByNature.com and choose a recipe that best suits your cat’s needs. Their raw recipes are designed to model the natural prey diet that cats and dogs would have eaten in the wild. Raw food full of meat and veggies without added processes can improve your cat’s overall health and may reduce the risk of further weight gain. Raw food is also beneficial for cats with allergies as they contain consist of high-quality ingredients and natural oils to support healthy skin and a shiny coat.
Keep Them Hydrated
Cats have the instinct to drink water, so make sure that their water bowl is always filled and placed in a visible area. You can also add a water fountain to encourage your cat to drink more. If your cat isn’t drinking enough water, it may become dehydrated and display signs of dehydration, such as losing energy, panting, refusing to eat, sunken eyes, and dry gums. Hydration is key to a healthy and happy feline.
Ensure the Environment is Safe
The environment your cat lives in can influence their physical and mental health. Providing your cat with a safe environment will help reduce their stress levels and promote their health. Make sure that your home is free of any hazards, such as toxic plants, chemicals, and sharp objects. It’s also important for their living environment to be calm and comfortable to ensure they feel safe and happy.
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