Cold Weather Tips for Cats

Make sure your cat can stay warm during the cold months.

Winter can be a grueling time for people. It's cold, it can be hard to get around, and slipping and falling risks are increased. It's easy to think that cats are impervious to the detrimental effects of cold weather because most of them have fur. The truth is that our feline friends can suffer from some of the same uncomfortable or dangerous cold weather conditions that we can. Here are some cold weather consequences for cats and the associated tips to keep them safer and more comfortable.

Ingesting Toxic Substances

There are many food and non-food substances that can be toxic when eaten by cats. It's important to be diligent all year about what your cat has access to that might harm him if he eats it. In the winter-time, there are a few extra substances around to be aware of.

Keep your arthritic cat more comfortable during the winter.

Irritation of Arthritis

Cats with arthritis can experience more pain associated with their joints when the weather is cold. Here are some tips on how to keep your arthritic cat more comfortable during the winter.

Frostbite

Cats can get frostbite and it usually occurs on the toes, ears, and tail. If it is cold enough outside to be concerned about frostbite for yourself, be concerned about your cat as well. Limit or eliminate your cat's time outdoors during frigid temperatures. If your pet has been outside during extremely cold temperatures, examine his skin for any areas that look pale. If you find any, contact your veterinarian immediately for help.

Becoming Lost

Cats that are outdoors by themselves may have a harder time finding their way back home during the winter. The normal smells and sights of the neighborhood are disguised by snow and frozen ground. If you absolutely must let your cat outdoors, make sure he has a proper collar, ID tags, and consider having him microchipped.

Dangerous Conditions Inside Vehicles

We are reminded often throughout the warm months not to leave our animals alone inside of a parked car. It may not be as obvious that this is a dangerous practice in cold weather also. Being left inside of a cold car for long periods is like being left outdoors. Your cat will be trapped in very cold conditions, risking frostbite and hypothermia.

A Note on Outdoor Cats

It is best if your cat does not stay outdoors during the winter. It can be extremely dangerous at worst and uncomfortable at best. If you are completely unable to bring your cat inside, consider a heated garage, shed, basement, laundry room, or any heated shelter. If it is absolutely necessary to keep your cat outdoors, pay close attention to the following requirements.

With some attention to your cat's extra needs during cold weather, you can both better enjoy the season and count down to warmer days.

You May Also Like These Articles:

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How to Decide on an Indoor or Outdoor Lifestyle for Your Cat

Microchipping Your Cat

Giving Your Cat Clean and Fresh Water

Why Should I Take My Cat to the Vet?

How to Be Prepared for Your Cat\'s Veterinary Bills

Alternative and Holistic Veterinary Medicine for Cats

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