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New Year’s Resolutions for Pets: Setting Healthy Habits
New Year’s Resolutions for Pets: Setting Healthy Habits

The new year is the perfect time to focus on improving your pet's health and well-being. Here are some practical and engaging resolutions to help your furry friends thrive:

Charlotte Sykes avatar
Written by Charlotte Sykes
Updated this week

Regular Exercise Plans for Dogs

  • Daily Walks: Commit to regular walks tailored to your dog's age, breed, and fitness level. Whether it’s a brisk 30-minute walk or a leisurely stroll, outdoor time benefits both physical and mental health.

  • Interactive Play: Include activities like fetch, tug-of-war, or agility training to keep your dog stimulated and burn off extra energy.

  • Indoor Exercise: On cold or snowy days, try indoor games like hide-and-seek, stair fetch, or puzzle toys to ensure your dog stays active even when stuck inside.

  • Track Progress: Use a fitness tracker or a simple journal to monitor their activity and keep them on track.

Enrichment Activities for Cats

  • Interactive Toys: Invest in puzzle feeders, laser pointers, or toys that mimic prey to satisfy your cat’s hunting instincts.

  • Climbing Spaces: Encourage climbing and exploration with cat trees, shelves, or tunnels. These provide exercise and mental stimulation.

  • DIY Fun: Create simple enrichment items at home, like cardboard box mazes, or a treat-filled toilet paper roll.

  • Quality Playtime: Dedicate at least 15-20 minutes a day to interactive play, like using a feather wand or a ball, to strengthen your bond.

Weight Management Tips and Feeding Guidelines

  • Balanced Diet: Consult your veterinarian to ensure your pet’s diet meets their nutritional needs. Adjust portions based on age, activity level, and weight goals.

  • Treat Moderation: Limit treats to no more than 10% of your pet's daily calorie intake. Opt for healthy options like carrot slices for dogs or freeze-dried cooked meats for cats.

  • Scheduled Feeding: Stick to regular feeding times to avoid overfeeding. Consider using portion-controlled bowls or automatic feeders for consistency.

  • Weight Monitoring: Regularly weigh your pet or feel for their ribs to ensure they’re maintaining a healthy weight. Use the body condition score charts at the bottom of the page as a guide.

  • Increased Activity: Pair weight management with increased activity. Short bursts of play or longer walks can make a big difference.

By incorporating these resolutions into your daily routine, you can improve your pet’s quality of life, strengthen your bond, and set the stage for a healthier, happier year ahead!

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