What games and other activities will keep your cat physically fit and mentally engaged?

Without your encouragement, your cat may become bored and stop taking the initiative to play as she grows older. So set aside time in the morning and evening for regular play sessions. It's important to keep your pet active throughout her life. Here are a few ideas to get you and your cat going.

A Game of Chase

You've probably already discovered your pet likes this game. If not, start by showing her a small ball or toy mouse. When you have her attention, tease her with the toy until she bats or grabs at it. Then throw her toy, and watch her chase it down. Once she learns this game, it's time to learn the next step - catching.

Catching and Fetching

Your cat may look a little high in the instep, but she's not too proud to play a rousing game of catch. Be patient. This may take a little training.

Start by getting her attention. Then throw a small ball or toy mouse to your cat and encourage her to grab it. As she learns the game, you can make it more exciting by increasing the distance between you.

Eventually your cat may even return the toy to you. But be patient, some cats aren't eager to make the game easy for you.

Your cat can also get really worked up and decide it's time to settle down and "attack" the toy, especially if it's catnip flavored. This usually brings a play session to an abrupt halt.

Take a Walk

Believe it or not, if you start when your cat's young, you can teach her to walk on a leash. First, get her used to wearing a collar. Then introduce the leash. Try walking her around the house on the leash for a few minutes each day until she thinks this crazy routine is normal.

Some cats prefer a harness to a collar. It's more comfortable and harder to slip out of.

If your cat decides leashes or harnesses are okay, you can gradually work up to a daily 10-minute walk around your yard or neighborhood. Watch the weather though. If it's too hot, your cat risks heat stroke. Cold weather can cause hypothermia.

Don't be disappointed if your cat won't cooperate. Many cats express their opinions about leashed walks by collapsing in a heap. If you find she's not interested in walking, you may need to consider another activity.

A Playmate, Perhaps?

One of the best activities for your cat is play with another cat. There's nothing cats enjoy more than a rousing chase through the house, launching off furniture, hiding behind chairs and stalking playmates.

But most cats readily accept only companions they were raised with, so don't try to force a new friend on your settled, adult cat. Cats can be territorial, and your old cat may express displeasure by spraying the house.

And don't expect your cats to satisfy their exercise requirements without help from you. Two cats may be double the fun, but they can also be double the trouble.

A word of caution. If you're thinking about adopting more than one cat, have a veterinarian examine the newest members of your family and have your pets spayed or neutered.

Of course, it's still fine to enjoy restful moments with your cat in your lap, but don't forget that she needs exercise too. So add a healthy dose of play to your cat's day!