Keeping our dogs and cats active indoors is essential during the winter months.
As the colder months settle in, it’s natural for people to spend more time indoors, and our pets often find themselves in the same situation. With shorter days, chilly temperatures, and possibly snow-covered or icy landscapes, keeping our furry friends active can be a challenge. For both dogs and cats, a steady exercise routine is crucial year-round for their physical health, mental stimulation, and overall well-being.
Create a Fun Indoor Space for Play
One of the best ways to ensure your pet gets enough exercise in winter is by designating a safe, indoor area for play. For dogs, an open living room or hallway where they can play fetch or tug-of-war is ideal. If space is tight, consider arranging the furniture to make a small play zone where they can move around freely. For cats, a designated area with a cat tree, scratching posts, and various toys will encourage them to play and explore.
Adding toys that move or make noise can capture both cats’ and dogs’ attention, helping them engage in physical activity. Rotating toys periodically can also keep them interested. Try hiding some of their favorite toys in various spots around the house to encourage them to explore and stay active.
Try Interactive Toys and Puzzles
Interactive toys can be a lifesaver when you’re busy but still want to make sure your pet stays active. Puzzle toys are a great option for both dogs and cats as they not only challenge your pet physically but also mentally.
For dogs, try a treat-dispensing toy that requires them to work a little before they can get a snack. These toys often involve flipping, pawing, or rolling motions that can mimic physical activity. For cats, a ball with a treat inside, or even a cardboard box maze, can engage their natural hunting instincts. Laser pointers are another excellent way to encourage a cat’s natural stalking and pouncing behaviors. Just remember to let them “catch” the laser occasionally by turning it off on a treat or toy.
Set Up Indoor Obstacle Courses
If your dog or cat has high energy, an indoor obstacle course is a creative and effective way to help them burn off steam. For dogs, set up a series of obstacles using items you have at home, like chairs to weave through, blankets to crawl under, or cushions to jump over. Teach them to navigate the course with treats and encouragement.
For cats, try setting up an agility course with boxes to climb, tunnels to run through, and perches to leap onto. Cats naturally enjoy climbing and jumping, so giving them obstacles that stimulate these activities can be highly engaging. Consider rearranging the course every few days to keep it fresh and fun for them.
Practice Commands and Tricks
Indoor time is an ideal opportunity to focus on training. Practicing commands with your dog, such as “sit,” “stay,” and “fetch,” will keep them engaged and provide mental stimulation. Teaching new tricks like “roll over,” “spin,” or even something fun like “play dead” adds variety to their exercise and is a bonding experience for both of you.
Cats can also be trained to follow commands, especially when treats are involved. Simple commands like “sit” or “come” can be taught with patience and rewards. You might even try teaching your cat to walk on a harness indoors, which can provide physical activity while building up confidence for potential outdoor walks.
Schedule Play Sessions Throughout the Day
In winter, it’s easy for both humans and pets to get a little lazy. To keep everyone moving, try scheduling several short play sessions throughout the day. For dogs, a few minutes of fetch in the hallway or tug-of-war can make a difference. For cats, a five-minute laser pointer or feather toy session will keep them interested and active.
Breaking up play sessions also provides your pet with a mental break, which can prevent boredom or frustration. Scheduling these small bursts of play at regular intervals can also help you stay motivated and engaged with your pet’s exercise routine.
Focus on Mental Enrichment
Winter is a great time to shift focus to mental exercise. Nose work games and scent training are excellent options for dogs, as these activities engage their powerful sense of smell. Hide treats around your home, or even hide a favorite toy, and let your dog use their nose to find it. For cats, place treats or catnip around the house to encourage them to “hunt” indoors.
Trust Maryland Veterinary Surgical Services With Your Companion’s Health
Your companion’s health is important, and the team at MVSS is ready to provide the best care possible for your furry family. We are dedicated to combining comprehensive exams and assessments with informative and honest discussions of your companion’s care. Once we have worked with you to decide on the best course of action for your dog, our professionals will use their surgical expertise to work towards the goal of giving your companion an active and pain-free life. We are proud to serve loyal companions in Catonsville and Baltimore. To learn more about our services, give us a call at 410-788-4088 or visit us online. For more information and tips for dog health, follow us on Facebook and Pinterest.