What a stretch that was! That's often the first part of your cat's limbering time. Your cat naturally does yoga to set their body in motion and to cool down after any kind of workout, be it physical or emotional. In either case, the body can come out of alignment, so a stretch of a limb here, a paw there, and your cat is back in shape. And aren't you lucky, because such movements are such a treat to the eye. A vision of gracefulness!

Once the limbering up is done, the workout can begin. It may start with a frenzied jaunt from the litter box. A tumble or fake fight with a companion cat may ensue, with a bit of held-down grooming in between. There may be high jumps from the floor to the top of the closet - "Look at me, I'm the best!" This is your cat's triathlon. Such a cat is always in training, so there's no problem with performance.

Yes, a cat is a natural when it comes to cat-isthenics. But, especially with an indoor cat, you, as your cat's person, can provide some active stimulation. It's so very easy to help your cat, and so much fun.

• Start with some paper bags. Cut off any handles (so your cat's head doesn't become entangled) and insert some tissue paper and maybe a pinch of catnip. Line the bags up so your cat can play musical bags. You might even cut out the bottoms and position them like tunnels.
• If your cat likes to fetch, toss a favorite object into one of the bags. While your cat fetches, run and hide so your cat can find you for another toss.
• Swinging toys usually provide a perky workout - especially for the high-jumper cat, but also for the cat that prefers less motion.
• Every cat needs a sturdy, nubby scratching post, tree, board, log, and/or cardboard box. Your cat may need all of these or a few of the preferred objects for a nail trim or a stretch of the limbs.

Your cat may be domesticated, but remember: a descendant of the Near Eastern wildcat (perhaps 10,000 to 12,000 years ago) needs your help to live a healthy and active life.