As the clocks go back, the nights draw in and the hours become darker, it’s time to think more about your cat and the extra care that should be taken to keep it safe and healthy over winter. Here are cat tips to help keep your cat healthy and happy this winter.
Use a reflective quick release collar
As the nights draw in, dusk and dawn (when cats tend to be most active outside) coincide with rush hour which results in more road traffic accidents for cats. Illuminated/reflective collars will make them more visible to cars. A collar with a bell will serve as a warning for unsuspecting animals and allows humans to be able to hear them coming and going and also find them if they are hiding in dangerous places. A quick release cat collar (also known as a breakaway collar) has a special plastic clasp designed to release quickly if your cat gets caught on something. Quick release cat collars are the type recommended by veterinary charity PDSA.
Watch the comfort food/treats
People tend to feed themselves and their cats more during the winter months. In addition, activity levels tend to reduce. The combination can lead to cat obesity, which is associated with health risks like diabetes. Keep your cat at a healthy weight by weighing out their daily food portions according to the manufacturers recommendation and monitoring their body condition. Ensure treats are protein rich and have no added sugar. Carnilove offers a range of delicious grain free cat treats that are available in both crunchy and semi-moist options.
Keep your cat protected against fleas
Fleas tend to gravitate indoors in winter and thrive where it’s nice and warm. If fleas aren’t stopped, they’ll quickly lay eggs on your cat’s fur which then fall off all over the house. Talk to your vet about available treatments for your cat and home.
Brush your cat regularly
During autumn, your cat will shed their summer coat to allow for a thicker, warmer coat for the cold weather. While cats do a good job of grooming themselves, some will need extra help to keep their thick coat in check and prevent matting. Regular brushing two to three times a week with a suitable brush or comb will help remove loose fur and prevent knots. Long hair cats benefit from daily grooming to help keep their coat in great condition.
Keep antifreeze away from your cat
Antifreeze is highly poisonous to cats. Ingestion can lead to kidney damage and can even be fatal in extreme cases. To keep your cat safe and protected, make sure you don’t leave any spills on your driveway or garage floor and store it somewhere they can’t get to.
Watch out for seasonal allergies
Cats suffer from seasonal allergies, just like humans. Constant paw licking, body rubbing, excessive scratching, hair loss, skin rashes, and a “flaky” or “greasy” feeling coat may be a sign that your cat is suffering from allergies. Central heating and extreme temperatures can dehydrate their skin and cause dandruff. If changes are spotted in their coat, then consult your vet for advice.
Keep them warm
Most cats prefer to snuggle up inside during the winter but if yours is the outdoors type make sure they always have access to a warm place they can go to at all times. And, if it’s really cold, keep them inside – pet cats that live in your heated home, aren’t used to the extreme cold and can develop hypothermia and frostbite, so it is very important to keep even outdoorsy cats warm in the winter.
Consider a litter tray
Cats that usually go to the toilet outside will always need a clean litter tray available when kept indoors during winter months. This is especially important when there’s snow on the ground and overnight.
Avoid toxic house plants
Poinsettia and lilies are popular Christmas plants but they’re actually poisonous to cats so should be avoided. If you think your cat has been exposed to a toxic plant seek veterinary advice immediately.
Check the cat flap is clear
When snow is deep cat flaps can become blocked, so you’ll need to check them to make sure that your cat can get out and, more importantly, back in again.
Help support arthritic cats in winter
If your cat has arthritis, the cold can exasperate the condition. Provide warm, comfortable areas for them to rest, and make it easier for them to access their favourite places. Your vet will be able to offer more advice in supporting joint health during winter months.
Last of all, don’t forget to make the most of the time you get with your cat in the winter, whether you choose to increase playtime or simply enjoy those warm, cosy nights curled up with them.