Cats and Winter

As we all know, indoor cats have a huge curiosity for the outside world and they will eventually shoot right past you bringing in the groceries.  Unfortunately catching them is never easy, so you move onto the next steps to make their journey home simpler.  Threats to your kitty in the outside world are always present, however the winter months pose a deeper concern.  Here are some things that will help protect your cat from the winter blues.

Letting your cat outside is dangerous, especially during the winter months.

Your cats coat may look warm, but it's less than useless when it's wet!  It can no longer trap heat in the hair filters as it normally would.  Hypothermia can occur.

Change in color.

If your kitty happens to explore the frigid Buffalo temperatures, check out their toe beans, ear tips and nose for discoloration.  Cats can get frostbite!

Predators.

The snow brings challenges to wild animals while searching for food.  This could potentially bring them closer to areas where your kitty might be exploring, and they could end up hurt or worse.

When you leave.

Think about setting out the shelter for your kitty to stay warm if they happen to return when you're not there to greet them.  Waterproof containers or styrofoam coolers make the best shelters.  Use straw to keep it insulated and always check for other furry creatures that may have taken refuge.  Do not use blankets or similar in snowy, freezing temperatures, they can freeze to your kitty when wet.

Curling up by the fire.

The flames of fireplaces and candles can be very intriguing to a cat and they can easily get hurt.  Space heaters are also very dangerous, not only to your cat but you as well!  If you have a kitty that loves to hog the heat, make sure there is an automatic shutoff option if it happens to get knocked over.  And for the protection of the outdoor wanderers, bang on the hood of your car or honk the horn before you start it!  They could be curled up to keep warm, under your hood.

Winter Must-Haves Poisonous to Cats.

• Antifreeze - Wipe your kitty's paws when they return  and have a non-freezing water source available outside.
• Rock Salt - Check your kitty's paws and fur so they don't ingest while grooming.
• Poinsettia, Holly Bows, Evergreens - Keep out of reach!

Smart Pet ID.

The colder and snowier the weather, the easier it is for your cat to lose it's scent back home.  Senior cats especially have a harder time maneuvering physically and mentally in the colder temperatures.  Making sure your cat has a ZuluTails Smart Pet ID tag, helps good samaritans find you, so your kitty can be home for the holidays!