Animals need to be physically fit to survive in the wild. They must be able to hunt for food, evade predators, and travel long distances.
For mating:
Many animals use physical displays to attract mates. For example, male birds may sing and dance to impress females. Animals that are strong and healthy are often more successful at attracting mates.
For offspring care:
Animals must be strong enough to provide for their offspring. This may involve carrying food, building nests, and protecting them from predators. Raising young is an energetic process, and animals that are not fit may not be able to successfully raise their young.
For socialization:
Many animals engage in social activities, such as playing and grooming. These activities help to strengthen social bonds and reduce stress. Exercise can also help to improve mood and cognitive function.
To avoid health problems:
Just like humans, animals can suffer from health problems if they are not physically active. Obesity, heart disease, and diabetes are all common health problems in animals that are overweight or sedentary. Exercise can help to keep animals healthy and prevent these problems from occurring.