Cat Winter Survival Guide
- Most cats prefer to snuggle up inside during the winter months but if yours is the outdoors type, make sure they always have a warm place they can go to at all times.
- If it is really cold, keep them inside even if they resist- pet cats aren’t used to the extreme cold and can develop hypothermia and frostbite.
- Cats left outside often crawl into vehicle engines for warmth whilst out roaming. Be vigilant & check under the bonnet of the vehicle before starting the engine.
- They may also venture somewhere they shouldn’t and get trapped without food & water. Keep the doors of sheds and outbuildings shut or wedged open so that cats do not become trapped. If in doubt keep your cat inside.
- Cats that usually go to the toilet outside may need a litter tray inside, especially when there is snow on the ground. When the snow is deep, cat flaps can become blocked or frozen so they will need to be checked regularly to make sure your cat can get out, but more importantly, get back in safely.
- Make sure your cat is fitted with a microchip so if they do wander off in search of warmth they can be traced back to you.
- When you cat comes in from the snow, wipe off any road grit that may stick to its paws or fur to prevent irritation.
- If you haven’t already done so, consider taking out pet insurance for your cat in view of the additional risks posed by the winter weather.
- Look out for hidden dangers over the festive season. Poinsettia and Lillies are popular Christmas plants but they are actually poisonous to cats.
- Keep tinsel well out of reach as well to avoid a trip to the vet to have it removed from your cats tummy.