Tuesday, Dec sixth, 2022 | By Dr. Marty Becker
As of late, pet cats are “born retired.” That’s not good for them mentally or bodily, and it will probably contribute to conduct issues. Right here’s what I advised a reader who needed to know what she might do about it.
Q: How can I get my indoor cat to train?
A: Nice query, and so necessary. Kittens are so energetic that we don’t spend a lot time worrying about train for them, however grownup cats wish to play, too, particularly if we make it a part of their each day routine from kittenhood on.
Get your cat shifting with a set of cat toys: wand toys (kitty fishing poles), giant peacock feathers that dangle enticingly, balls to chase and bat round, digital mice that zoom across the room, and even the beam of a flashlight despatched up the wall and down the corridor. Toss catnip mice for cats to retrieve or stuffed animals that they will bunny-kick.
You’re not at all times house, however you may present loads of play choices that don’t require your presence. Cat bushes and tunnels are nice for kitty cavorting and exploring — in addition to the occasional nap or hiding place. Place a cat tree in entrance of a window so your cat can climb up for a view. If a cat tree gained’t match, connect a kitty ledge to the windowsill so your cat can watch the world go by.
Provide alternatives to “hunt.” Take the quantity of meals you’d put into your cat’s dish and portion it out onto little plates or bowls and put them round the home so he’ll should go on the lookout for them. Or purchase a puzzle toy or two you could fill with meals, after which let your cat work to get it out.
If attainable, present a protected outside house: a catio. You possibly can construct one subsequent to the home that your cat can entry from a window, or convert a screened sunroom to a feline jungle fitness center crammed with climbing areas and protected crops.
There’s extra in Pet Connection, the weekly nationally syndicated pet function I co-write with Kim Campbell Thornton and my daughter, coach Mikkel Becker.
