Winter Cat Care

Season’s Greetings! The official start of winter is about a week off, but it’s already pretty chilly in many parts. This time of year can be very dangerous for our feline pals. You’ll need to take a few steps to keep your furry buddy warm, cozy, and purring over the next few months. Read on for some winter cat care tips from a Burlington, ON vet. 

Safety

The outside is always unsafe for kitties: cars, predators, and chemicals all pose risks. In winter, freezing temperatures make going outdoors even more hazardous. Fluffy’s pretty fur won’t protect her from severe cold. Snow is also dangerous. Not only can cats get stuck or smothered, they can also get lost more easily, since snow can mask landmarks and scents they use to find their way home. If you do let your cat out, bring her in at night and in bad weather, and make sure she has an emergency shelter.

Water

Dehydration can be a problem with some cats at this time of year. You may want to consider getting your furry friend a kitty drinking fountain, to encourage her to drink more. 

Bedding

Did you know that cats somehow manage to sleep even more than usual in dreary weather? Fluffy will probably sleep through most of the next few months. Offer your drowsy ball of fur plenty of comfy beds and napping spots.

Powder Room 

Make sure that your feline friend’s powder room isn’t in a spot that is damp, cold, or just hard to get to. Nobody likes a chilly bathroom!

Comforts

Since it gets dark so early now, many people don’t get home from work until after sunset. Turn a light and radio on for Fluffy before you leave, so she isn’t left alone in a dark, quiet house.

Heat Sources 

Don’t be surprised if you often find your kitty sprawled out on a sunbeam or next to a heating vent. Cats love finding warm spots to snuggle up in. Be careful with things like fireplaces, candles, and standalone heaters. These things are definitely not safe for Fluffy to get close to! 

Cuddles 

Fluffy takes her official lap warming duties very seriously! Spend some time with your feline buddy, and let her snuggle up with you. 

Do you have questions or concerns about your kitty’s health or care? Contact us, your local Burlington, ON animal clinic, today.