Does your cat turn into a real couch potato every winter? Don’t worry, it’s completely normal! When the days get shorter and colder, even the most playful cats prefer napping over exercising. That’s why we’ve prepared some fun and easy activities to get your cat off the couch or bed and back into shape. Ready to start? Here’s a list of great ideas.
Toys with extra movement!
Cats love moving objects that awaken their hunting instincts, compelling them to chase an “unpredictable” object. Try automatic toys like mechanical mice, little animals, or interactive balls that move around the house and effectively keep your cat active.
Indoor obstacle courses
Create a homemade obstacle course using boxes, tunnels, and small ramps for your cat to explore and jump around. You don’t need fancy materials—some cushions or recycled boxes can create a fun space where they can exercise without spending a cent. You can also reward them with small treats or snacks at the end of the course for extra motivation. They’ll find it irresistible!
DIY toys in just two steps
If you have small balls or feathered toys, throw them down the hallway or in a large space so hunting becomes the main activity. You can also make a simple toy by wrapping a string around a stick or using a ball of paper. Cats love these simple toys and can spend hours chasing them. Don’t forget about cardboard boxes! They’ll have a blast with them, especially if you add small openings or holes.
Climbing towers or tall scratchers
A climbing tower is an excellent investment to keep your cat active year-round. In winter, it provides a place to stretch, jump, and climb while observing the human world from above. Place a tall scratcher near a window so they can enjoy the winter sun and watch the birds. They’ll absolutely love it!
Daily play sessions
Set a playtime routine during the hours when your cat is most active, usually at dawn or dusk (yes, we know the timing isn’t ideal for you). This way, your cat will know they have a dedicated time to exercise with you and can get used to staying active—even when it’s cold and gloomy outside!
Rotate their toys!
Cats get bored veeeery quickly if they always play with the same objects or toys. What’s the best solution? Rotate or store some of their toys and swap them out weekly. This way, they’ll always have something “new” to play with, keeping their interest alive and ensuring they stay playful.
And that’s it for these simple Ownat tips to help keep your cat moving, even on the coldest days. With these ideas, both you and your furry friend can stay entertained, exercise more, and enjoy quality time together. Let us know if it worked for you!
