Cats are such lovable animals. They belong to the feline family. Every cat owner wants to see their beloved feline friend enjoy good health. But it’s not always that easy - obesity and stress are two prevalent yet often overlooked medical conditions common in cats. Exercise, therefore, plays an important role in ensuring the overall wellness of your cat.

Here we will discuss some essential exercises and enrichment activities for your cat.

Weight management is essential for feline health

Overweight cats become susceptible to several potentially hazardous health conditions such as diabetes, heart problems, etc. Exercise keeps your beloved furry friend healthy and fit. To keep them engaged, it’s important for owners to select exciting and engaging activities and games for them.

Another helpful approach can be to create a schedule for play and exercise. You can of course organize this around your work routine.. Remember though, that cats are more active during dawn and dusk. Planning regular playtimes around your cat’s mealtimes can be a good idea, too.

Secondly, playtime should be kept quite short - ideally around 10-15 minutes in total. This does depend upon the age of the cat, though. Ten sessions (each of 10-15 minutes) is ok for kittens and younger cats, whereas two to three sessions are sufficient for older cats.

Keep an eye on their level of interest or fatigue - although it’s likely that your cat will make it abundantly clear when they are getting bored! 

Note: If your cat is panting or breathing heavily, give them a rest, and then resume the activity again once they have recovered and seem interested.

Related: 5 Common Health Issues that Cat and Dog Owners Need to Look Out For

Using a laser pointer is a great way to get your cat moving!

Using a laser pointer is a great way to make them feel that they are “catching their prey.” As this pet guide shows, this is an excellent activity that develops skills, and keeps your cat engaged.

‘Laser toys are often good entertainment, but do follow it up with a real toy the cat can catch to avoid fixation and frustration over never being able to catch the light beam,’ says Hofve. 

However, be sure to never shine the beam directly into the cat’s eyes, as this can cause damage.

Puzzle toys

Complex toys that keep your cat working and provide sound reinforcement at the same time can be a real hit. Using puzzle toys to pull out dry food pieces can also help reduce their eating speed while keeping them engaged.

And these don’t have to be expensive toys from the pet store either. According to Dr. Nelson, you can use everyday household objects as toys to encourage cats to exercise. Think ping pong balls or balled-up pipe cleaners, there are so many options.

Cat trees and wheel exercise

Cat trees can also provide high rest or play areas for your cat. Many also incorporate cat scratch posts that promote healthy scratching behavior.
Cat wheels are a great way for cats to get their cardio! If you are unsure how to get your cat to use an exercise wheel, the manufacturers often include training materials to help you to encourage your cat to experiment.

Cat tower

The multi-story ‘cat towers’ ​​sold online and in pet stores are another great way to ensure that your cat will have plenty of play areas and variety for good indoor exercise. Susan Nelson, DVM, an associate professor of medical science at Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine in Manhattan, Kansas, proposes to set up small paths in various parts of the tower to encourage climbing and play.

Hidden treats, foods, and toys

This activity keeps cats busy and develops their browsing skills. Like jigsaw puzzles, concealing handles, food, and toys can help cats feel as if they are hunting for their food as they would in the wild.

Leash training

Get outside! With the right training and equipment, you can take your cat outside with a leash and harness, just as we do with dogs. 

“Walking on a leash is great if you can get your cat to be more tolerant of harnesses and lead,” says Emma from We’re All About Pets, who recommends a harness-like garment that covers the upper part of the cat's back, with strings built into it. “Make sure the harness fits snugly and can't be pulled off. Small cats are easy to train, but in all cases, it requires patience and perseverance.” 

Create a hockey rink

To make things even more interactive and fun, Nelson recommends putting a ball in a large cardboard box or the bathtub to create an instant “hockey rink” for your cat. As the ball goes flying off the walls (and the cat goes flying after it), you’ll get some laughs and your cat will get some much-needed exercise.

Electronic toys and catnip bubbles

Catnip is a useful tool for increasing your cat's activity, but experts say it is best to use it only in the right conditions. “Keep in mind that not all cats respond to catnip, and of those who do, few will be aggressive from catnip,” he said. “Also, never give catnip before a stressful event, like going to a veterinarian. The veterinarian will thank you!”

Electronic toys are fun for cats, but they should be included in other types of combined play. Some cats enjoy chasing and blasting bubbles and this can provide lots of laughs for everyone.

Perches and shelves

Cats love to look at the world from above! This gives them a safe place to hunt in the wild. Providing standing spaces such as window shelves and seating areas gives them a better viewing space and encourages them to jump up and down. Please make sure these standing spaces are in a safe place.

Create a suitable environment for indoor cats

Domestic cats are more likely to exercise if their environment stimulates them. Having plenty of variety will mean they will get more exercise and express their natural instincts more.

Provide a scratching post or, best of all, a cat tree. This gives them an area dedicated to sharpening their nails, as well as something they can ride on.

Always rotate the toys to avoid boredom. The more interested they are in their toys, the more likely they are to keep active by playing with them. 

Set aside a little time each day to share with your cat. There is nothing more exciting than having someone else play with you!

Remember: while it is essential to create your cat's regenerative environment, and the changes that will help them to stay active, most cats also like a certain amount of routine. Stick to the same feeding times as best as you can, and do not make any significant changes all at once.

Important recommendations

Play with them using toys that they can chase and pounce on, such as feathers on a stick or other popular toys designed for cats. The movement of these toys mimics the actions of your cat’s natural prey, so they’ll love pouncing on them and trying to catch them.
 
Choose a scratching post that meets all their needs. It should be tall enough that they can stretch fully, and sturdy enough that they can put their weight against it. In the wild, cats enjoy maintaining their claws by scratching; a purpose-built post is a great way to let them express this behavior.
 
Give them somewhere to hide. This could be a ‘cat igloo’ from the pet shop, or somewhere else that’s safe, enclosed and easily accessible.
 
Additionally, find an elevated space that they can also enjoy, such as on an easily accessible, wide windowsill. Make sure the area is safe, and they can’t come to any harm. Many cats enjoy watching the world go by from up high, as it gives them a vantage point that would help them in the wild.

 
 

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Cats make wonderful pets. They are also fun and amusing to watch—as the cat video phenomenon has proved. As they give us so much joy, it’s only fair we ensure they are as healthy as possible.
 
Cat vaccinations are pivotal when it comes to optimal feline health. Even if your cat lives indoors, he or she needs to be vaccinated. Different viruses and other health issues can hurt cats just as easily as they do dogs. Follow this guide to cat vaccinations to avoid preventable health problems in your furry friend.
Mandatory cat vaccinationsSome cat vaccinations are mandatory. Whether you adopt a cat or rescue a kitten, you must invest in the following vaccinations:  
 

• Rabies: In many states, the law requires you to give your cat a rabies vaccination. Rabies is a highly contagious health problem that can spread to humans. Cats can contract rabies through a bite from a fox, raccoon, skunk or bat, which then attacks their central nervous system. While there are vaccinations, there is no cure for rabies, which is why it’s a mandatory vaccination in most of America. Essentially, it keeps the community as well as your cat safe and healthy. 

 

• Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (FVRCP): The Feline Viral Rhinotracheitis, Calicivirus, and Panleukopenia (or FVRCP) vaccine also go by the easier-to-remember name of distemper. Feline distemper is another serious disease, or in this case, a group of diseases. Each of the viruses mentioned in the name can cause serious health problems in cats. Distemper is one of the top causes of cat deaths; a single-strand DNA virus which can spread through contact with an infected cat's saliva, urine, blood, nasal discharge, or feces. While often rapidly fatal, it is entirely preventable with a quick vaccination.

 
Optional cat vaccinations
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Some cat vaccinations are optional and can be provided on a case-by-case basis. Cats who spend unsupervised time outdoors or those that live in multi-cat households should be provided the following vaccinations:
 

• Feline Leukemia (Felv.): Feline Leukemia (or FELV) is typically recommended for outdoor cats. This viral infection requires close contact between cats to spread, but it only affects cats. This is a serious disease that kills around 85% of cats within three years of their diagnosis.
• Feline Immunodeficiency (FIV): Another serious viral infection that targets outdoor cats and those in multi-cat households is Feline Immunodeficiency (or FIV). FIV’s symptoms are similar to those of Felv.; however, the two are caused by different viruses. FIV severely weakens a cat’s immune system. It is mainly spread by deep bites, which is why this vaccination is essential for cats who spend any time outside.
• Bordetella: If you have dogs you may be familiar with the Bordetella vaccine. Bordetella is a virus that creates upper respiratory symptoms in dogs and cats. This virus is typically spread in boarding and daycare settings and is easily spread through contact (licking, nuzzling) or through the air. If you plan on boarding your cat or taking them to a groomer, you will likely need this vaccination.

 
The Feline Infectious Peritonitis vaccinationThe Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) vaccination is becoming more popular. FIP is almost always fatal, which is why the development of the vaccine is important.
 
However, the use of this intranasal vaccine is still somewhat controversial. It has also not shown to be 100% effective in preventing all strains of FIP. Discuss this vaccine with your vet if it has not already been provided. They will be able to provide the most recent research and tell you if it is essential for your cat’s health.
 
Timing of cat vaccinationsVaccinations of any species are typically started when the animal is a baby. This is true for humans, dogs, and cats. Most vets will begin vaccinating a cat at around 6-8 weeks. The first round of vaccinations will be completed when the kitten is about 16 weeks.
 
Some vaccinations, like rabies, require regular boosters. Your veterinarian’s office will provide you the proper vaccination schedule for your cat.Cost of cat vaccinationsCat vaccinations are not that expensive. At our veterinary clinic they cost around $15-$30 per shot, and this is typical pricing for vaccinations. If you adopt an adult cat, vaccinations will be very inexpensive. Whether you got your kitty from us at Gulf Coast Humane Society or another rescue shelter, your cat will have been provided the required vaccinations.
 
Final thoughtsCats need our help to live their best lives. Vaccinations are an important way to keep them happy and healthy. The vaccinations discussed in this article all prevent serious diseases and viral infections. Protecting your cat from these health problems should be your first priority.
 
If you have any other questions about cat vaccinations or if you’d like to make an appointment, give our friendly team a call today on 239-332-2719! You can also email us at clinic@gulfcoasthumanesociety.org or pop in to 2685 Swamp Cabbage Court, Fort Myers, FL 33901.
 
View our gorgeous animals currently up for adoption here. 

How Much It Costs to Own a Small Pet
 
All pets cost money. There are a variety of costs associated with owning and caring for animals, even small animals. However, in general, a small pet will cost you much less than their larger counterparts. There are also a large number of small pets to choose from who make excellent furry, fluffy or scaley companions or family pets.
 
If you are on a budget, new to pet ownership and want to start small, or interested in adopting a small pet, the information in this article will help you.
 
Popular small pets and their associated costs 
Selecting a pet is a big decision. Cost is just one of the factors you need to consider. Yet, it is a factor that is often overlooked by potential pet owners. While all of the numbers presented below are estimates, they can give you a good understanding of the costs associated with owning a small pet.
 
Small pets come in a variety of wonderful shapes, sizes, and species. They can also be very costly or fairly inexpensive to own. Two main categories of cost are associated with small pet ownership: one time and lifetime.
 
One time costs are the ones you spend upfront. The cost of purchasing the small pet, vaccinating them, and initial equipment purchase. On the other hand, lifetime costs are ongoing. For the entire life of your small pet, you will need to spend money on food, vet visits, toys, treats, etc. Many small pets can live a long time, so the lifetime costs can add up quickly. Here we’ve broken down the costs for different animals:

Rabbits 

Rabbits as pets are growing in popularity. You can still purchase them relatively cheaply from a pet store, breeder, or adopt them from a rescue. As long as you purchase a common breed rabbit, it will likely only cost $20-$50 from a store. You need to purchase a good rabbit hutch as well, which can be considered a onetime cost.
 
Rabbits live between 8-10 years as pets. Often they will live much longer. The lifetime costs of a rabbit will be less than other long-lived small pets. But, you will still need to purchase food, treats, and pay vet bills.
A pet rabbit will likely cost around $300-$500 per year. 

Dogs 

Obviously, dogs come in a variety of sizes. A dog breed is considered small if it typically weighs less than 22 lbs. or stands shorter than 16 inches. There are currently ninety-four small dog breeds to choose from. We have some beautiful small and big dogs available for adoption - have a scroll through here.
 
Small dogs have some of the longest life spans of any dog breed. On average they will live from 15-20 years, sometimes more. The one-time costs for a small dog will depend on the breed. Some small dogs are very costly to acquire, some are more affordable. Vet costs also tend to depend on the breed. Your food cost will be less than with large dog breeds, but toys and treats will likely cost the same and potentially more when you factor in the dog’s long life.
 
Factoring in one time and lifetime costs, you are looking at around $700-$2000 per year.

Cats 

Cats are considered small pets. They typically cost much less than dogs. In fact, if you adopt a cat, it could cost you $75 or less. Purchasing a kitten from a breeder is similarly inexpensive; although, it may run between $100-$200.
 
Breed will make a difference in the lifetime costs of cats. Their lifespans are about the same as small dogs. Some breeds are more prone to health issues, which will raise your yearly vet bills. Most cat breeds, however, will not cost nearly as much as dogs per year. In general, you will likely pay between $500-$1000 per year to own a cat.
 

Ferrets 

A final extremely common small pet is the ferret. These fun-loving weasels make great pets. The price of a ferret can vary, but will likely be between $50-$250. They live between five and fifteen years as pets. You will also need to purchase a habitat for them to use when not supervised. They are just too inquisitive to be left unattended.
 
Ferrets generally have fewer lifetime costs than other small pets. You will likely pay between $200-$500 per year to keep them.
  
Final thoughts 

The variety and diversity of small pets make them ideal for any family. No matter the type of pet you are looking for, you can find it in this category. A major advantage of small pets is that they tend to be less expensive than large pets. As seen in the list above, costs vary by type. Make sure to research the one time and lifetime costs of owning your chosen pet. That way you can enjoy your pet without worrying about the associated costs.
 
 
Just rescued a beautiful new member of the family? Find out about our veterinary clinics and our low-cost spray and neuter centres.  Or, browse through our lovely pets currently available for adoption here.