The rate of obesity in cats has skyrocketed in recent years – studies show an estimated 57% of cats are too heavy.¹ While an extra roll around the middle may not seem like a big deal, the reality is that pets just a few pounds overweight are at higher risk for health problems like diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure and heart disease.² Diet is just one part of the equation – cats, just like their human companions, need exercise to stay healthy. So if your cat could stand to lose a pound or two, try these tips to help turn your flabby tabby into a lean, mean purring machine.

1. Will jump for food – Place a bowl of food on an elevated surface so your cat has to jump to get it. Return the bowl to the floor and repeat.
2. On the hunt – Put your cat on the prowl by hiding small bowls of food throughout the house. Your cat will be on the move all day “hunting prey.”
3. Get to the point – Few cats can resist the urge to chase down the light of a laser pointer or flashlight. Be sure to let your cat “catch” the dot every once in a while so he or she stays interested.
4. Controlled chaos – Look for pet-friendly remote-controlled toys like a mouse or small car for your cat to chase. Be sure it’s durable enough to withstand a good swat.
5. High stepper – Put your cat’s food in places where he or she has to climb stairs to get it.
6. That old yarn – A classic. There’s no better way to get a cat off the couch than the sight of a big ball of yarn rolling across the floor.
7. Brown bagging it – Give your cat a paper bag or box to play in – you’ll both be entertained.
8. Tub pong – Ping pong balls make great cat toys; roll one in the tub and let the fun begin.
9. Social climber – Buy a multi-tiered cat tower. Hide treats in it to encourage your cat to climb and play.
10. Walk on the wild side – With the right equipment, proper training and a lot of patience, you can actually teach your cat to take a walk outside on a leash.

If you have any questions or concerns about your cat’s weight, talk to your vet. He or she can recommend a weight loss program including proper nutrition and exercise that’s right for your cat.

REFERENCES:

¹Ward, E. 11 ways to get moving with your pet. Healthy Pet. Spring 2010; 28-29.

²Toll PW, Yamka RM, Schoenherr WD, et al. Obesity. In: Hand MS, Thatcher CD, Remillard RL, et al., eds. Small Animal Clinical Nutrition, 5^th ed. Topeka, KS: Mark Morris Institute. 2010;501-542.

LINKS:

WebMD website. pets.webmd.com/cats/guide/healthy-weight-for-your-cat. Accessed September 19, 2011.

About.com website. vetmedicine.about.com/od/diseasesandconditions/tp/Tips-For-Exercising-With-Dogs-And-Cats.htm. Accessed September 19, 2011.