As we begin another New Year, tradition calls for the making of resolutions. Difficult as it may be to pen and/or voice those for ourselves, we do it anyway. This time why not write one that includes your pet(s).

So often through the year our resolves to clean the litter box more often or walk the dog end with seemingly more important matters of life interfering with the follow through. Sometimes it is sidestepping a not-so-enjoyable task, but often it is simply a matter of just being too tired.

Your pets are part of the family and should not be brushed aside. Oh the lucky cat that loudly begs for food or shows his distain for dirty litter by “going” elsewhere, for they are the ones that are attended to regularly. It is easy to ignore their quieter brethren, however.

Cats being independent by nature are not as in-your-face as dogs. There is no question what he wants when a dog demands a walk. When a cat desires something, he may attempt to go it alone rather than enlisting your help. Woe to that priceless whatnot on the shelf behind which you have stashed a favorite interactive toy out of reach, you think. The cat knows it’s there….

Cats enjoy regular playtimes and definitely have favorite toys. Felines are nocturnal animals and usually do their solo playing at night. They love it, however, when you interact with them. It can be fun for you as well, watching your cat become a kitten again. It is also very healthy for your cat to run and jump, and the pleasure you’ll receive in turn from watching the antics will benefit you as well. Laughing is one of the best medicines as we all know.

One of my cats chitters at me to play Laser Light Chase at bedtime. Three of my four vie for swatting the wand toy critter from the air. Another cat attempts to open the treat jar on the coffee table if I have not offered one upon sitting down for some TV time. All of these involve my putting an effort into the activity, and I must admit to feeling guilty if I don’t play along.

So, as you fine tune your New Year’s Resolution List this month, why not take the opportunity to include interacting with your pet(s) more often. Hopefully this pledge will be so fun that you will make it a habit rather than a “have to.” You can even incorporate it into that “get more exercise” one which always makes the top ten.

Product of the week: Cat Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook by DVMs Eldredge, Carlson, Carlson, and Griffin. This 600+ page reference book is packed full of more useful information than I’ve ever seen. Better than searching the web for answers that may overwhelm you in their numbers and conflicting advice, get one of these for fast research at your fingertips. A volume on dogs is also available.