As I write this, the snow is coming down in droves. I am growing weary of this weather and beg for Spring to make a fast entrance. Sure, it is nice to look at, but getting out and about in it is another story, especially when you have pets. Getting my dog out in it is no picnic. He loves to play in it, but when it comes to “taking care of business,” he hesitates. I can see the thoughts in his head as he contemplates where to go: “I can’t go here; it’s too cold; the snow is too deep; it keeps touching my hindquarters when I squat.” Nevertheless, he muscles through and eventually gets the work done. Of course, this is after I layer myself up in three coats and my dog in two coats. It’s a lot of work keeping him comfortable in the elements. This is why I think it’d be easier at times to have a cat. After all, they can take care of business inside and you don’t have to worry about spending 15 minutes just getting yourself ready to assist your pet.
However, there are cold weather tips you should keep in mind when it comes to your cat’s safety and well-being. Sure, cats have great survival skills by instinct, but the cold weather still makes them vulnerable to many hazards.
Consider your cat’s fur coat.
It only really protects him when it is dry. Rain and snow and cause illness and hypothermia. Plus, if his fur gets wet or snowy, it can become matted and unable to trap the heat among its hair filters as it should. If your cat’s fur does get wet from the elements, give him a nice rub down with a warm towel.
If your cat gets outdoors on occasion, look him over from head to toe upon coming back inside.
Be sure to look at his ear tips, nose and toes for any changes in color, as this could indicate frostbite. Also, make sure any of that rock salt folks put down on the sidewalks and streets don’t get stuck in between his toes. Not only can this cause painful cuts, it is also toxic. Be sure to thoroughly wipe his paws and fur. By keeping the patches of fur between his toes groomed, you can mitigate the potential damage done by the rock salt. Also, your cat will most likely lick the area clean, and you don’t want that!
Ensure your cat has proper identification, too.
When inclement weather hits, it can make it difficult for your cat to find his way back home if he is out and about. A safety collar is great, but that can come apart. It’s best to make sure he is microchipped.
If your cat tends to spend a lot of time outdoors in the winter weather, have a small doghouse or rubber container available as shelter.
Make sure it is small enough to trap the heat but big enough so your cat can crawl inside. Also, cats may stay outside longer than they should and may not always voice their pain or discomfort. Be sure to check for any symptoms of hypothermia, such as any change in behavior, sluggishness, or non-responsiveness.
Older cat problems
If you have an older cat, the colder temperatures can affect any issues he might have with arthritis. You may want to offer him an extra soft bed for additional comfort and even a sweater if he will wear it. (My dog will wear two at a time!)
Beware of hungry predators on the prowl
Your cat could become a target for a hungry predator if he is outside. The harsh weather conditions often make food resources slim for coyotes and other outdoor creatures. As a result, they may turn to your cat as a source of food.
Then there is the issue of dry skin.
No one likes dry, irritated, itchy skin and neither does your cat. Yes, staying inside is best for your cat, but that dry air can do a number on his epidermis. Consider adding some omega-3 fatty acids to his diet to help keep his skin and coat healthy and shiny. You should consult with your vet first about dosages, however.
Those unwanted extra pounds
And, just like us humans, the dark and cold season can cause a bit of weight gain due to less activity. Your indoor cat may not move around as much in the winter, but if he does go outside for periods of time, it is a good idea to increase his food intake to make up for the extra calories he will burn. However, as with any change to your cat’s diet, be sure to speak with your veterinarian first.
Does your cat still get thirsty in the winter?
You bet. Dehydration is still an issue, just as it is in the summer. Be sure to make a clean and adequate source of water available for your cat, especially if he does spend appreciable time outside and looks to other sources to quench his thirst…such as a puddle filled with that toxic rock salt residue. Poison alert!
Let’s just hope Winter is winding down and Spring is on its way. If you are anything like me, you have had more than enough of this season and are ready for warmer days ahead.
These are among the many great tips offered by petmd.com and Katherine Tolford with veterinarian Dr. Jessica Trimble.
Written by Ann Butenas
An internationally-recognized author and writer, Ann began her professional writing career at age 12 and began speaking while in college. She has been published thousands of times over the past three decades in all media forms, was former editor and publisher of KC Metro Woman magazine, and has also hosted three talk radio shows in the Kansas City area.
