How to Exercise a Senior Cat or Dog: Gentle Routines for Aging Pets

Just like people, senior pets need regular exercise to stay healthy, happy, and mobile. But as cats and dogs age, their joints become stiffer, energy levels dip, and they may develop conditions like arthritis or heart disease that make intense activity uncomfortable or unsafe. That doesn’t mean exercise should stop—gentle, appropriate movement is key to maintaining muscle strength, flexibility, and a good quality of life.

Here’s how to keep your older furry friend moving safely:

Why Exercise Matters for Senior Pets

Regular activity helps:

  • Maintain a healthy weight, reducing strain on joints

  • Keep muscles strong to support mobility

  • Improve circulation and heart health

  • Stimulate the mind, reducing boredom and anxiety

  • Strengthen the bond between you and your pet

 

Gentle Exercise for Senior Dogs

  • Short, Frequent Walks

    Multiple 5–15 minute walks a day on soft surfaces are better than one long outing. Avoid slippery floors or uneven terrain.

  • Indoor Games

    Toss a soft toy a short distance, play gentle tug, or hide treats for them to find. Keep sessions brief and watch for signs of fatigue.

  • Swimming or Hydrotherapy

    If approved by your vet, swimming is a fantastic low-impact exercise for dogs with joint pain.

  • Balance Exercises

    Encourage standing on a cushioned mat or using wobble boards designed for dogs to gently work stabilizer muscles.

Gentle Exercise for Senior Cats

  • Interactive Play

    Use feather wands or laser pointers for short, low-energy bursts of play. Let your cat set the pace.

  • Food Puzzles

    Encourage light movement and mental engagement with puzzle feeders or treat balls that roll.

  • Vertical Movement

    If your cat can still jump safely, place low, stable cat trees or steps to encourage climbing and stretching. Avoid tall perches that could increase fall risk.

 

Important Tips for Both Cats and Dogs

  • Warm Up and Cool Down

    Start slowly with stretching or gentle movement, and end sessions calmly to prevent stiffness.

  • Monitor for Pain

    Limping, excessive panting, reluctance to move, or behavioral changes after exercise are signs you may need to slow down or see your vet.

  • Tailor Activity to the Individual

    Each pet ages differently—always adjust intensity based on their abilities and any medical conditions.

  • Keep Floors Safe

    Use rugs or mats on slippery surfaces to help pets feel secure when moving around the house.

  • Stay Consistent

    A regular routine of gentle movement is better than sporadic bursts of exercise.

Exercise for senior pets doesn’t have to be intense—it just needs to be consistent, safe, and suited to their individual needs. With patience and love, you can help your aging cat or dog stay active, comfortable, and connected with you for years to come.