Winter Indoor Activities for Your Pet
Cuddling under a blanket with your furry friend may sound like the perfect way to weather the cold temperatures this winter, but exercise should always be part of your pet’s daily routine for optimal pet wellness all year long.
When the cold weather makes you feel like hibernating, try some of these indoor pet activities to help your cat or dog have fun while keeping fit this winter.
Why Exercise is So Important for Pets
Physical and mental stimulation all year long is an important aspect of pet wellness. Physical exercise can help protect pets from unwanted weight gain, which can lead to joint problems like arthritis and serious medical conditions like diabetes.
Plus, the mental stimulation our pets gain from interactive play helps prevent destructive behaviors like chewing and biting while lowering a pet’s risk of developing anxiety.
Cold Weather Activities to Try This Winter
Sharpen your pet’s instincts to jump, play, and chase with these fun-filled indoor activities:
Tug of War: Nothing beats the classics like tug of war for canines in need of cardio when running isn’t an option. For pet safety, choose toys made specifically for tugging, such as rope toys, but replace them promptly when they get frayed or damaged.
Fetch: Both cats and dogs enjoy spirited games of fetch with a favorite toy. Have your pet perform a simple trick before you toss for an added twist—and don’t forget the tasty reward!
Hide and Seek: Treat your pets to a “sniff” test by stashing their favorite goodies around the house. Shower your pet with affection and praise each time he or she finds the hidden treats.
Indoor Obstacle Course: With a little extra space, you can create an indoor obstacle course using pet-safe items like pillows, folded blankets, water bottles (to run around), and broom handles lying across stacks of books for jumping. To keep pet safety top of mind, create low obstacles only and move anything breakable (such as lamps) out of the room.
Join a Pet Playgroup or Schedule a Playdate: For the ultimate social enrichment, join a puppy playgroup or invite your friends and their pets to your house for a day of indoor play.
Plan a Field Trip: Indoor dog parks are growing in popularity, as are stores and restaurants that welcome pets. Just be sure your pet is the type that loves to socialize.
Incorporate Interactive Toys: Winter is the perfect time to introduce puzzle toys, which challenge pets to figure out how to free the treats trapped inside.
Prioritize Pet Wellness
Mental and physical exercise should be part of every pet wellness plan. At PetSmart Veterinary Services – Snellville, we’re here to do our part with comprehensive wellness and preventive care visits, plus a full range of other veterinary services. Please contact us at (470) 646-3240 to schedule a visit or if you’d like more tips on indoor activities for pets.