“Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet.”
― Colette, French author
Warmer weather brings us the joy of outdoor walks, exercise, and summer adventures. If you have an older dog or cat at home, it’s just as important for them to get outside and enjoy some fresh air, or even get some indoor exercise, as it is for you. Sometimes it can be difficult to encourage your senior pet to get some exercise, but there are some great things you can do together. Here are some of the best exercises for your senior dog or cat:
Best Exercises for Your Senior Dog
In their heart of hearts, dogs love to be outside and usually don’t need too much encouragement to go out with you. Here are three fun ways to enjoy the outdoors:
Walk
Nothing beats a good old-fashioned walk. Try and keep a steady and slow pace, nothing too fast. Take breaks as needed. Try and walk on softer surfaces, like grass, rather than asphalt or gravel.
Swim
Swimming is an excellent way to get exercise with low impact. The resistance in the water provides a great workout for muscles, and is easier on older bones and joints.
Games
Playing with some favourite toys is a great way to inspire your dog to run around, or at least stroll around. From throwing balls to playing hide and seek with a toy, you can have lots of fun disguised as exercise.
Best Exercises for Your Senior Cat
Unlike dogs, cats would often prefer to just laze around the house. While it might be more challenging to get your cat to exercise, here are some ways to get them active:
Food
Try moving your cat’s food or water bowls to a different location. This will make them move around while trying to find them.
Toys
Get one of your cat’s favourite toys and wiggle it around to get them excited and moving around. Catnip toys or laser pointers can work well.
Furniture
Cats like to climb and explore new areas. If you can, try adjusting your furniture or pillows to allow for new areas with different heights for your cat to investigate and enjoy.
Older pets need daily exercise as part of their healthy lifestyle. Your pet may also benefit from supplements, and we can help with that. If you have questions about your aging pet, supplements, and more, contact the team at Woodbine Animal Clinic. We’re here to help.
