Playing with your cat or dog doesn’t just strengthen the bond you share, it’s key to keeping your pet’s weight down, which can add years to its life. And animal experts say that getting even the laziest furry friend up and playing is easy. The trick? Play the way they like to play! Think you’re doing that already? Maybe not. For…
Cats:
* Imitate their prey. Place a toy in front of cats and most will just stare at you. That’s because they want a challenge. “Cats come alive when a toy mimics the movements of a mouse, lizard, bird or other natural prey they can chase and capture,” says certified animal behavior consultant Pam Johnson-Bennett C.A.B.C., author of Starting from Scratch. To do it: Dangle a toy from a pole or rope in front of the cat, dart it away, hide it behind the leg of chair or wall, then dart it back out. “This stimulates your cat’s brain as she plans her ambush and it motivates her be more active since it makes her want to run and pounce.”
* Let her win. Cats get bored with toys when they’re always out of reach. So, let her catch her prey once in a while. Then end the game by giving her the toy as a trophy.
* Hide her toys. Stuff a mouse into the couch cushions with just the tail peeking out or put a toy in an empty rectangle tissue box and let her reach in a try to catch it. “This simulates the exciting experience of finding prey outdoors.”
Dogs:
* Get involved. Turning dogs loose in the backyard isn’t enough physical stimulation for them. They need you to initiate aerobic exercise—such as playing fetch, catching a Frisbee or going on a walk, says Susan Nelson, D.M.V., a veterinarian and assistant professor at Kansas State University.
* Don’t feed them too close to play-time. Eating an hour before or after exercise may make your dog’s stomach bloat or twist, especially for large breed or deep-chested dogs.
* Exercise their brain. Dogs—who have the mental capacity of two-year-old humans—need mental stimulation, too. Try getting yours to search for hidden toys or treats, chase a laser light or complete special tasks, such as getting your slippers or picking up the newspaper from the front yard.
[photo: fazen]
