Just like humans, pets should lead an active lifestyle. Continue reading to learn the benefits of keeping your cats and dogs moving!
Maintain weight and prevent obesity
Keeping your pet active prevents obesity, which is unfortunately common in dogs and cats. If your pet is overweight, he/she is at risk for other health issues, such as increased joint strain, diabetes, heart disease, and even difficulty breathing. Maintaining an active lifestyle is the best way to decrease the chances that your cat or dog will develop one of these conditions.
Does My Cat/Dog Have Signs of Diabetes?
1. Has your dog experienced rapid weight loss?
2. Has your dog’s appetite increased or decreased?
3. Is your dog more thirsty than usual?
4. Is your dog urinating more frequently than usual?
5. Is your dog less active than usual?
6. Does your dog have cloudy eyes or is experiencing vision problems?
7. Is your dog experiencing frequent urinary tract infections?
8. Does your dog have sweet-smelling breath?
9. Does your dog seem more lethargic than usual?
10. Does your dog have a family history of diabetes?
11. Is your dog's coat dull or thinning?
12. Has your dog had frequent skin infections?
1. Is your cat urinating more frequently than usual?
2. Is your cat more thirsty than usual?
3. Has your cat experienced rapid weight loss?
4. Is your cat showing signs of muscle weakness?
5. Has your cat’s appetite increased or decreased?
6. Does your cat seem more lethargic than usual?
7. Is your cat vomiting more than usual?
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Does My Cat/Dog Have Signs of Diabetes?
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Reduce aging effect
While there’s no way to avoid aging (We all wish there was!), keeping your pet in top physical and psychological shape can reduce some of the negative effects that come with getting older.
Taking regular walks or fitting in regular exercise is a great way to keep your pet in good shape for as long as possible.
Encourage good behavior
Pets who are under-stimulated and do not exercise enough may develop poor behavior secondary to their excess energy.
If your pet is bored all day, he or she will likely make more noise, bother you frequently, and even break things within the house. If you take your pet outside, it’ll even give them an opportunity to meet other pets.
Not to mention, if you sit around cooped up all the time, you’re bound to go stir-crazy. The same goes for your pets. Inactivity can lead to crazy behaviors and anxiety, and they’ll also miss out on that great release of endorphins that comes with exercise.
Giving them a chance to burn off pent-up energy is great for their mental health! Lots of activity facilitates training sessions, learning, and good behavior.
If your pet continues to display behavior issues, schedule a behavioral consultation with a veterinarian.
Related reading: Positive Reinforcement Training for Pets
Improve sleep quality
Despite having the luxury of more nap times than humans, pets still need to be active throughout the day to get a good night’s rest. If your pet isn’t getting enough physical activity, chances are he or she won’t be as tired.
Reduce anxiety
If you sit around, cooped up all the time, you’re bound to go stir-crazy. The same goes for your pets. Inactivity can lead to crazy behaviors and anxiety, and they’ll also miss out on that great release of endorphins that comes with exercise. Giving them a chance to burn off pent-up energy is great for their mental health.
Maintain healthy joints
Carrying excess weight can place extra stress on your pet’s joints. Regular activity also increases muscle and soft tissue strength, which supports healthy joints. Making sure your pet is at a healthy weight while ensuring frequent exercise is one of the best ways to ward off osteoarthritis and other joint diseases.
Improve your health, too!
As a pet owner, when your cat or dog is getting exercise, we’re betting you are, too! Making sure your pet is getting enough physical activity is a great way to keep yourself in shape as well.
Obesity in cats
Most people think about taking their dogs out for a walk or to run around in the park, but don’t forget about your feline friends, too! If your cat doesn’t want to play outside, there are lots of ways that you can interactively play with your cat inside. Consider finding toys such as bells, laser pointers, mechanical mice, etc. This is also a great bonding time for you and your cat.
Conclusion
If you're concerned about your pet's activity levels or have any questions about their exercise needs, it's always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian. They can provide guidance tailored to your pet's specific needs and help you create an exercise plan that promotes their overall health and happiness. Book a veterinary checkup today to ensure your beloved companion is on the right track to a fulfilling and active life.
