Here's how to make a cat your training partner

 Here's how to make a cat your training partner

Jafari Jamison Underfoot is a cat like no other. Not only has he mastered the art of wearing a harness and leash, but he also goes for daily walks with his owner, which often turn into short sprints. The beautiful Abyssinian cat lives in scenic Vancouver, British Columbia, and has access to beautiful hiking trails and the Pacific Ocean. "People just watch in disbelief. They're not used to seeing a cat run," says his owner Christopher Weeks.

How did Jafari become such a great role model for active cats? Christopher says he started training his pet as a kitten. He taught Jafari to wear the harness through positive reinforcement, pairing it with treats and positive praise.

After he got used to the harness and leash inside, they went outside. "We went for regular walks, and Jafari always stayed on his feet. Then, one day, he started picking up the pace. That's when we started running," the cat's father says proudly.

Jafari doesn't run long distances, but Christopher says the two are short-distance runners who take lots of breaks. "We walk, run, stop, scratch and sniff, and then do it all again."

Train with your cat by tailoring the training to them individually.

Dr. Liz Stelow, a board-certified veterinarian at the University of California, Davis, says that unfortunately, Jafari is not the norm. "Most cats don't get enough exercise. I think most cat owners don't think about exercising their cats. It doesn't even occur to them that their cat might find it beneficial."

The behavioral veterinarian advocates that people and their cats exercise together. "We all need physical and mental exercise for our physical and mental health," she says. "Cats and humans need exercise to keep muscles in shape, the body lean and the brain adequately supplied with blood." But while some cats can go outside, the veterinarian says the decision should be based on your cat's personality. A fearful cat who hides under the bed will likely be reluctant to participate in outdoor adventures.

Dr. Stillow insists that this is not a problem. There are many more things you can do together, especially with toys. Stick toys are a universal favorite of all cats. She personally uses Go Cat brand wand toys, especially the Mouse Catcher Wand, although she stresses that each cat is individual, so experiment to see what works for your little lion.

Since so many people work at home, the vet says that walking around the house with a cat chasing you and a toy is good exercise. Doing it just once a day for five minutes is great exercise for both you and the kitty.

Also, when choosing toys, make sure they don't fall apart and cause swallowing or get into the cat's stomach:

• Avoid yarn, elastic cords, strings, threads, bells or other small parts that can come loose or be chewed off.
• Never allow your cat to use hanging toys when you are not present, as they can pose a strangulation hazard.
• Avoid cheap catnip toys because of the potential for mold.

Dr. Stillow also gives high marks to Doc and Phoebe's Indoor Hunting Feeder. The interactive feeder, which consists of small plastic mice that you fill with dry food, gives your kitty a higher calorie count when she tries to find the dry food. The ever-popular cat feeder is also a favorite of California veterinarians.

Record your training program

Besides running, walking and playing with toys, what else can you do with your kitty? More and more cat owners are getting creative:

Walks/Runs: Can't get your cat into a harness or it's getting cold outside? Walks or runs are ideal because they help your cat get used to life. Your cat can feel safer scampering around in a stroller, and you can walk or run! Gradually increase the amount of time your cat spends in the stroller, and put treats and toys in it to associate the stroller with positive things.

Cat yoga: meow must-have! Get out your mat and cat and sign up online for your favorite yoga class. Kittens are curious and will try to get your attention when you start the Downward Dog class. They will interrupt you, but know that you will be stretching a bit while your cat jumps and climbs on you.

Cat Weight Lifting: Use your cat as a dumbbell or medicine ball. Actor and weightlifter Travis DesLaurier uses his cat Jacob as a workout buddy. Whether it's leg lifts or push-ups, the orange tabby helps the man keep his abs toned. Travis even has a YouTube video that shows you exactly what to do for a great strength workout.

Burning calories outdoors

The trend of people exercising their cats also caught the attention of Laura Moss, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Adventure Cats, an outdoor cat lifestyle website. She created the site as a resource and community for cat owners. "The kitties have exceeded my expectations. They are capable of so much more than what they are given," says the outdoor enthusiast.

Her book, website and social media pages feature cat lovers around the world getting active with their living room lions. You can see cats in every national park in the country, put cats on cat sleds and send kittens on hikes, but the Atlanta-based writer believes you have to respect your cat. "If they don't like being outside or doing an activity, don't force them; it will only hurt your relationship with your cat."

Christopher repeats this statement. But fortunately, his active Abyssinian loves the outdoors and can handle her adventures. "He has made people not like cats, but love them. We are so proud of him for being a cat ambassador who can show the world all the wonderful things you can do with a cat. Cats need exercise, and it's always better when they can do it with you."

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