Senior Moments

by Jessie

Today I decided to visit the Meow Mix Cafe and see what is going on over there. To my delight they have added an Acatemy that is offering 5 interesting classes. One of which is Cat-isthenics, something that every cat needs to know for sure. I thought I would bring this class to you for your inspection, and then you can take the rest of the classes on your next visit to the Cafe. I took the class and look what I got!!!

Stretching, that's the first part of limbering time. Cat's naturally do yoga to set their body in motion and to cool down after any kind of workout, be it physical or emotional. In either case, that long body can come out of alignment, so a stretch of a limb here, a paw there, and you are back in shape.

Once the limbering up is done, the workout can begin. It may start with a frenzied jaunt from the litter box. A tumble or fake fight with a companion cat may ensue, with a bit of held-down grooming in between. There may be high jumps from the floor to the top of the closet - "Look at me, I'm the best!" This is your triathlon. You are always in training, so there's no problem with performance.

Yes, a cat is a natural when it comes to cat-isthenics. But, especially with an indoor cat, you, as your cat's person, can provide some active stimulation. It's so very easy for your human to help, and so much fun.

* Start with some paper bags. Have your person cut off any handles (so your head doesn't become entangled) and insert some tissue paper and maybe a pinch of catnip. Line the bags up so you can play musical bags. You might even cut out the bottoms and position them like tunnels.

* If you like to fetch, have your person toss a favorite object into one of the bags. While you fetch, have your person run and hide so you can find him for another toss.

* Swinging toys usually provide a perky workout - especially for the high-jumper in your family, but also for the cat that prefers less motion.

* Every cat needs a sturdy, nubby scratching post, tree, board, log, and/or cardboard box. You may need all of these or a few of the preferred objects for a nail trim or a stretch of the limbs.

You may be domesticated, but remember: a descendant of the Near Eastern wildcat (perhaps 10,000 to 12,000 years ago) needs your help to live a healthy and active life.

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