The Best Ways to Exercise Your Pet Indoors
With temperatures trending downward, indoor playtime is on the rise. And if you’re looking for the perfect indoor pet games for rainy or chilly days, you’ve come to the right place! It’s important to keep pets active year-round, so in this blog, our team at Sunrise Boulevard Animal Hospital shares a variety of indoor pet activities for cats and dogs of all ages and fitness levels.
Why Does Pet Fitness Matter?
Pets, just like people, need to stay fit for optimal health. And while cats have a reputation for being the champions of napping, pet fitness is important for felines, too. Here are some reasons why you should keep your cats and dogs busy in cooler weather with indoor pet exercise:
- Indoor playtime helps combat pet obesity, which can lead to health complications such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems.
- Pet fitness keeps pets stronger and more flexible.
- Pet exercise boosts moods and reduces anxiety.
- Pets that exercise regularly have fewer behavioral issues, such as excessive barking and destructiveness.
- Physical exercise provides mental enrichment.
- Plus, it’s fun to play with our pets!
Pet Exercise Ideas
When it comes to indoor pet activities, there are plenty of indoor pet games to choose from. Select activities that align with your pet’s natural energy and fitness levels, and don’t forget to join in the fun! Here are some indoor playtime ideas to keep pets on their toes this fall:
Use your imagination to create a customized obstacle course. Put those Amazon boxes, throw pillows, and unused hula hoops to good use. Your pet will love dodging, jumping, and crawling through obstacles. Start with one or two and gradually add on to the course.
Turn hide and seek into treat time. Prompt your pet’s instinct to hunt and track by hiding treats around the house (in safe places, of course) for your pet to seek out and gobble up.
Learn and practice new tricks. A training session is a great way to bond with your cat or dog while giving your pet a boost of confidence.
Schedule a playdate. Invite your dog’s favorite friends to join in the fun during indoor playtime.
Run the stairs. Athletic and competitive dogs need to stay in tip-top shape. Race your pet up the stairs, let him win, and watch him swell with pride.
Consider a treadmill made just for dogs. For dogs accustomed to long walks, a dog treadmill can fill in the gaps when the weather isn’t cooperating. Dog treadmills have safety features and speed levels designed for pets, and they come in different sizes for small, medium, and larger dogs.
If you have questions or would like more pet exercise ideas, please contact us at (916) 726-2334. Our team looks forward to helping you with all of your pet’s health and wellness needs.