The winter season is just around the corner, and I’m sure every cat parent wants to ensure their feline friends stay safe and warm.
Even though our cats are covered in fur, they can still feel the bite of cold weather, especially the outdoor ones.
So, whether your furball is a homebody or enjoys outdoor adventures, here are some tips to make this winter the coziest ever for your cat.
1. Keep Your Cat Indoors
First and foremost, never leave your cat unattended in the winter cold. As cats tend to sleep a lot, there’s no better way to keep them safe and warm than by cuddling up together on the couch.
Consider providing cozy cat beds and soft blankets for your feline friend, giving them the option of alone time when they desire it.
For outdoor kitties, you can provide a shelter that is elevated off the ground with a wind-protected entrance. This prevents rain and snow from entering the shelter and keeps the cold wind out.
You can even allow them to have access to a garage where they could hide during cold and bad weather.
Doing so also reduces the risk of your kitty sneaking into cars, a dangerous situation that could lead to injuries or even death.
2. Provide Special Care For Senior Cats
Senior cats can be greatly affected by the harsh winter weather. Cold weather can stiffen their joints, making jumping painful and difficult.
So, make them a priority by providing comfy beds in their favorite low sleeping positions, so they don’t have to jump to higher spots.
3. Feed Your Cat A Healthy Diet
Nutrition is key to keeping your cat safe and healthy during winter. Ensure they have access to quality cat food, as good nutrition helps them maintain a thick coat and supports their immune system.
Outdoor cats require extra food to compensate for the energy they burn to stay warm.
Place their dishes in covered areas to shield them from the wind and snow, and pay attention to the food type you’re feeding them.
If you feed your cats canned food, check it regularly to prevent freezing. Besides wet food, dry kibbles are a winter-friendly alternative that your cat will be thankful for.
4. Keep Your Cat Hydrated
Bear in mind that cold temperatures can cause food and water to freeze. Check your cat’s dishes multiple times a day, especially the water bowl.
If the water freezes, your cat might drink water from contaminated sources on the street, leading to different issues. Therefore, make sure your feline always has access to fresh, clean water.
5. Protect Your Cat From Intruders
To prevent your furry companion from outdoor escapades, secure entrances and exits. Not only that will help you keep your cat indoors, but it will also help you keep potential intruders out of your home.
Animals who are looking for food or a warm place to stay can easily get in your home (for example through a cat or dog door), injure your cat, or even transmit contagious diseases like rabies.
6. Pay Attention To The Room Temperature
Cats adore warm and cozy places, so ensure your home’s temperature is neither too hot nor too cold.
Your cat needs to maintain a body temperature above 90°F to avoid hypothermia. Keeping your thermostat around 70°F will help your feline stay comfortable throughout the winter.
7. Avoid Decorations That Might Harm Your Cat
With winter comes the festive holiday season. While we all enjoy decorating, cat parents need to be very careful.
It would be best to use cat-safe decorations and avoid items that can harm your feline friend such as tinsels, Christmas tree lights, and similar.
Moreover, as our funny felines are famous for knocking things over without a specific reason, it’s important to avoid candles as well. Cats can burn themselves on candles, or even knock them over and start a fire.
8. Keep Winter Chemicals Out Of Your Cat’s Paws
During winter, we often use many different winter chemicals. However, these products can be extremely toxic for our cats, especially antifreeze. We should carefully keep them out of our cats’ reach, and clean up any spills right away.
9. Take Your Cat To Regular Vet Visits
Lastly, no matter how well you care for your cat, regular vet visits are crucial, even during the winter.
Regular vet visits provide peace of mind, knowing your cat is in good health. They also help detect any issues early, when they’re easier to treat.
Final Thoughts
These tips will help you ensure your furry friend stays warm and safe this winter. Each cat deserves plenty of love and attention to make the cold season enjoyable.
By following these guidelines, you and your cat can look forward to the coziest and happiest winter ever!
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