Why exercise is important for your pets?
Exercise for your pets is important because it prevents a higher body condition score and their risks of obesity. Weight can affect health, like diabetes, blood pressure, and even cancer. The exercise is also good for their heart and can prevent heart disease.
How much exercise do dogs need?
Most dogs will need about 1-2 hours of exercise per day. This can vary depending on breed, age, weight, and other physical factors.
How much exercise do cats need?
Cats’ activity is more dependent on their playfulness but aim to exercise your cat 4 times for about 10-15 minutes each. The amount, like dogs, also depends on the breed, age, and physical characteristics.
When to exercise?
Aim to exercise your animals outside when it is not too hot or humid, these conditions increase the chance of injury or heat exhaustion. Don’t exercise when the animal is lethargic or weak, or any injuries are present. Try to exercise only when the pet is playful and energetic.
SAFETY FIRST:
If your dog has a muzzle (like pugs or bulldogs) be careful when exercising to avoid shortness of breath and exhaustion.
How to exercise dogs?
- Walking
- Running
- Hiking
- Cycling
- Swimming
- Dog Puzzles
- Dog parks
- Dog Games- Like “tug-o-war” and “fetch”
- Dog Sports- Like agility training
How to exercise cats?
- New Toys can be a source of playing for your cat (like tossing a toy)
- Chasing laser pointers or ribbons
- Cat puzzles
- Cat trees or climbing
- Like dogs’ cats can be leash trained to go on walks, runs, or hikes
How to implement pet exercises in your daily life?
Make it a priority by putting it on your calendar, or your planner. Know your pets’ habits, like when they are playful, and pick that time (this will increase their energy to exercise and will also be more efficient for your schedule because the task will be accomplished faster). Also, pick the best nutrition plan to increase your pets exercise yield. Overall, try to exercise whenever possible.
Sources:
- How to Get Your Cat to Exercise (webmd.com)
- Exercise for Dogs: Keeping Your Dog Fit and Active (thesprucepets.com)
By: Kinsley Boutwell