As kittens, cats are playful, experiencing sudden bursts of energy followed by long naps. Many felines remain this way once they reach adulthood, while others become calmer and more sedate. However, a hyperactive cat is not uncommon. You will not know how hyper your cat is until it reaches adulthood, and there is no way of predicting it.
Whether you have a lazy cat or a feline who cannot sit still, a structured routine can help you deal with it. Your aim should be to have a cat who gets sufficient exercise, food, and stimulation. How you provide it and what the cat needs depends on its nature. You have to get such products for your cat with this help you can play with your cat and make a structured routine.
Beware the physical implications
Typically, cats that get stuck up in trees or find themselves in awkward predicaments are overactive. Unlike their fellow felines, they are not content to watch the world pass them by. Their adventurous nature often gets them into trouble. While extricating them from these situations is challenging, doing so is not enough. Their antics can lead to permanent joint damage. Overactive feline owners should feed their kitties natural joint supplements for cats. They help protect a cat’s joints from damage incurred by hyperextending them during play. Some good companies like Hill’s, Scruffy Paws Nutrition, Iams, or Purina offer a great variety of such supplements at affordable prices.
Injuries sustained during a cat’s lifetime can lead to feline arthritis, a condition that may shorten a feline’s lifespan and cause them extreme discomfort. Arthritis sets in as a cat gets older and affects all its joints, especially the shoulders, hips, elbows, knees, and ankles. If you suspect your kitty has injured itself during the many shenanigans that overactive cats involve themselves in, consult a veterinarian for treatment, including anti-inflammatories.
Rule out medical causes
Hyperactivity in cats can be a symptom of an underlying problem, including stress or anxiety. Cats may display overactive behavior due to separation anxiety or to get their owner’s attention. Analyzing your feline’s behavior patterns could provide insight into what is driving their overactive behavior or if it is simply in their nature.
Cats that suddenly become hyperactive after previously displaying normal feline energy levels might be ill and need medical attention. Any behavioral changes, including increased or decreased appetite, sleep, and activity, could indicate something is wrong. Consult a vet for advice if you suspect there might be more to your cat’s high energy levels than just being part of their personality.
Schedule mealtimes
Like most mammals, cats get lethargic and sleepy after eating. Therefore, schedule your hyperactive cat’s feeding time at least an hour or two before you expect it to settle in for the night. Once you establish a routine, your cat will become accustomed to it, and you can expect a sudden burst of energy right before mealtime. This is the feline’s way of telling its owner it is hungry.
Ensure your cat eats a balanced diet that contains sufficient fluids. Cats do not often drink water from a bowl-like dog, although you should ensure yours has access to fresh drinking water. Instead, they rely on their food as a source of liquid. Active cats need more fluids than those leading a primarily sedentary lifestyle. Moist cat food contains the most liquid, while dry food has the least. Moist cat food contains the most liquid, while dry food has the least. Make a point of feeding your overactive cat wet food, when possible, to ensure it does not dehydrate.
Structured play sessions
The best way to help an overactive cat is to help it get rid of excess energy. Do this by structuring playtime to ensure your cat gets plenty of exercise. It is a commitment that requires cat owners to stick to a routine and make time to devote exclusively to their felines. Play sessions should last at least 20 minutes, although hyperactive cats may require longer.
Buy toys that kitties can chase, such as laser pointers and windup toys. Dangling a piece of string in front of a feline for them to catch is an inexpensive way to keep a cat occupied. A softball that a cat can bat and chase around is another alternative. A cat tree encourages felines to jump and climb in a safe environment where they cannot get themselves into trouble. Ensure that the one you buy includes a scratching post.
Get a companion
A play session of about 20 minutes might not be enough to rid your cat of excess energy. In such cases, a feline companion might be an ideal option. Despite not being as social as dogs, cats enjoy the company. Their interaction with another feline will give them the physical, mental, and emotional stimulation they need. While some cats are perfectly content with being ‘only’ pets, a hyperactive feline usually benefits from a kitty partner in crime.
Remember that doubling your household’s feline population requires additional time and resources. Your expenses and responsibilities will increase immediately. Additionally, you run the risk of getting a second cat who does not share your current feline’s energy levels.