COSY CATS: How to keep your cat happy during the winter weather
We might assume our cats have those lovely fur coats to keep them warm, but cats can get cold too!
Older cats, short haired cats (and sphynx cats especially) are particularly prone to feeling the cold, so during the winter months, think about leaving the heating on if you are away from home.
How about treating them to a new cosy bed? Somewhere comfortable and cosy to hunker down inside or perhaps a radiator seat? Did you know you can even get heat pads and heated blankets for your feline friends….?
If they don’t take to new beds or boxes immediately, leaving an old t-shirt or blanket from your own bed can help them feel more secure with the familiar smell, so pop that in, on or over to start with too.
Look out for outdoor cats in the cold – they may curl up in small spaces, climbing into sheds, bins, bunkers, or even up into car engines for residual warmth – please check before locking your sheds at night or starting the car in the morning
And if you have a cat that likes to roam and come back of their own accord, remember to check the cat flap in especially cold and icy weather. If the cat flaps frozen, they may be stuck outdoors!
Remember the cold can effect joints and joint pain in cats with arthritis and such, so a healthy diet - the right food and medication to combat this will help, but if you notice any difference in your cats behaviour please contact your vet (remember even during lockdowns, vets have been classed as essential workers so although it may be more difficult to get an appointment, the vet can still see your pet). Please do not put off a visit, a call or any treatment
If you leave an outdoor water source for your cat, check this too. Again, on especially cold days and overnights, the water may freeze so keep refreshing.
And when thinking about frosty or even snowy days (if we do see them any this winter) – think about those tiny cat paws walking on ice, snow and sludge. You might want to try wipe their paws when they come in to get rid of any salt or grit before they start licking that off.
If it’s the first time your cats seen the snow – it might be a good idea to supervise their first adventure! Reactions differ in all cats, some love it and some are unsure, so give them the encouragement and time to decide before putting them out on a snowy day
Finally – and our top tip for the winter months with your feline friend – cosy cuddles on cold winter nights are best all round! If you are away from home for any period, your cat sitter can feed, water, change their litter and play as usual, but extra warm cuddles are always given and lap time is a must on colder days!
During the winter months Love Cats Croydon is more than happy to book “extra-time” slots too if you’d like us to give any special attention and extra lap cuddles to your cat in the cold. Remember we also offer bespoke packages so anything from getting them in for dinner before it gets dark, checking the cat flaps not frozen over, or plugging in the electric blanket – just drop us a message to request.
