Cold-Weather Tips to keep your Cat Safe and Warm
Winter can be tough on all of us. If you can, just snuggle with your bestie all winter long. But if you must go out, here are a few tips from us!
General Cold Weather Care Tips
Outdoors:
Do not leave your cat outdoors for extended periods of time. If it is too cold for you, it is probably too cold for your cat.
Never leave your cat in the car during cold winter days. The car keeps cold air trapped in and can cause serious health problems.
Make sure your cat’s identification is on and up to date with your contact information in case they get separated from you.
If your cat goes outdoors, having them microchipped is essential.
Indoors:
Make sure cat bedding is kept away from cold drafty areas of the home.
A humidifier in the home can prevent dry, itchy, flakey skin.
Other Animal Issues:
This time of year wildlife may come closer to your warmer homes. Keep an eye out for any wildlife visitors before letting your pet outdoors.
Be sure to bang on your car hood before you start your engine to give cats and other animals a chance to escape.
If you care for any outdoor animals, be sure there is always clean, fresh, unfrozen water available with a heated bowl, and a properly sheltered area to rest.
Winter Toxins
Salt-based Ice Melt: Wipe boots off when coming back in from outdoors. Try using Pet Safe Ice Melts where you can.
Antifreeze: Be sure to clean any spills right away and don’t track it through areas where your cat goes.
Rodenticides (Rat Poisons): use humane traps. Pesticides can be ingested by rodents, and if your cat gets ahold of a rodent who has consumed poison, that will also affect the cat and can be potentially fatal.
Winter doesn't mean you should stop your flea and heartworm prevention
Of course, we need to mention this. It is best to keep pets on a flea, tick, and heartworm preventative all year round. If your pet's preventative has lapsed, make sure to get them back on it.
Heartworm Disease in cats is caused by mosquitos. It just takes a few days of mild weather for mosquitos to hatch, so it's not uncommon to see them during winter months.
When you're picking a preventative, make sure it is appropriate for your cat. Call our office for more information on what product is safe and effective.
A Final Reminder
While your cat may not venture outdoors, winter presents unique challenges that require your attention. By following these tips, you can ensure your feline friend stays healthy, happy, and safe throughout the season. If you have any questions or need advice on winter care, don’t hesitate to reach out to our clinic!
