Extra care for cats during cold weather is crucial as they are vulnerable to temperature drops. Provide a warm shelter, monitor their outdoor exposure, and ensure they have cozy bedding. Additionally, check for signs of discomfort or illness, as cats may be more susceptible to cold-related issues.
Most cat likes to sleep on human’s couch or by side in your bed. Its main cause is cats live to stay in a warm place. In winter, the cat usually takes sunbathes to seek warmth. Old and cat mother seek a warm place with her baby. In spite of having hair in the body of a cat, it feels colder.
During this time the cat becomes sick. So, in winter cat care needs extra focus. That means, in winter your pet cat needs more care.
Winter Cat Care: 7 Important Things You Should Know
Today here we disusing some important things for winter cat care. As a cat lover, you have to consider these things.
A soft and warm bed
Usually, the cat likes to sleep too much. And in winter to sleep they need a soft and warm bed. Nowadays the cat bed or cat house is an available market. In corner of the room make a bed for the cat or take him to your bed on the blanket beside you. This cat will feel comfortable in sleep and won’t get suffer from the cold.
Sun Bath
Give your cat to take a sunbath. Draw your curtain of window or door close where sunlight comes to reach the room. In this cat will get warmness as they like it.
Cats sunbathing in the cold can be good, but moderation is key. Sun exposure provides warmth and boosts their mood. However, ensure they have the option to move to a shaded area or indoors to avoid overexposure.
Cats, especially in colder weather, may seek warmth wherever available. Monitor their behavior, and if they appear comfortable and content, allowing them some sun time is generally beneficial.
However, always prioritize their safety, offering alternative warm spots and ensuring they don’t stay outside in the cold for extended periods.
Eating habits of the cat
Keep an eye on a cat whether it is taking its food regularly or not. According to age feed the cat or give cat food so they can get enough calories. According to need food amount should be increased or decreased retriggered food should be secured in a warm state. If a cat is given cold food, it can suffer from common cold and fever.
Bath and grooming
Cats are usually clean animals and they don’t like water. In winter baths of cats should be stopped. If this is not done, the cat may suffer from pneumonia with fever. If the bath is needed very badly then give a bath with warm water and dry its body with a towel. Also, dry the body with the hairdryer and keep him in a warm place.
Related article: How to Give Bath a Cat Without Water
Activity and sports
In winter, laziness is seen in almost all animals. At this time cat usually sleeps. So, at this time play with him daily for some time and keep its activity regular.
Engaging cats in activity and sports during cold weather can be good and necessary for their well-being. Indoor play helps maintain their physical health and mental stimulation.
However, monitor their comfort, as some cats may be less active in colder temperatures. Interactive play and indoor activities, like puzzle feeders, can be essential to prevent boredom. Outdoor activities should be supervised, and appropriate gear like cat jackets may be considered.
Overall, balancing activity levels based on the cat’s preference and ensuring they stay warm and safe is key to promoting a healthy and happy feline lifestyle in colder conditions.
The garage and Basement aren’t safe
Place a net if your cat goes outside regularly. So, they can’t go outside in winter. In winter cats seek a warm place and go to the garage for warmers of the engine and sleep under the vehicle or over the tire. In this case, an accident can happen or the body may be burnt due to cusecs heat.
Necessary treatment & vaccine
Before coming winter give the vaccine to your cat to prevent disease. Take your cat to the vet if it suffers from a cold or fever as soon as possible.
Read Next: How much food does a kitten need?
How to keep cat warm in the house
Even if your cat prefers the indoors, it can still feel chilly. Follow these tips to keep your cat warm at home:
- Provide warm beds and blankets in a draft-free, cozy spot for them to curl up.
- Consider relocating them to a warmer room during colder nights.
- Ensure indoor litter trays are available for cold weather, even if they’re not accustomed to using them.
- Dry your cat after wet or snowy adventures for a comfortable indoor experience.
- Use a petsafe microwavable heat pad under a cozy blanket for lasting warmth. Avoid electric blankets to prevent burns and potential hazards if chewed.
Also Read: Do Cats Like Warm or Cold Water for Baths?
Keeping outdoor cats warm in the winter
Ensuring the warmth and well-being of outdoor cats during winter is crucial for their health. Here are essential tips to help keep them comfortable in colder temperatures.
- Provide Adequate Shelter: Offer a cozy and insulated shelter to shield outdoor cats from the harsh weather. This could be a small, enclosed space with a raised floor, bedding, and a flap to keep out drafts.
- Warm Bedding: Place warm, dry bedding inside the shelter. Consider materials like straw or blankets that retain heat. Regularly check and replace bedding to keep it dry.
- Feeding Stations: Increase their calorie intake during the winter months to help generate body heat. Provide a balanced and nutritious diet, considering wet food for extra hydration.
- Water Source: Ensure a consistent supply of unfrozen water. Consider using heated bowls to prevent water from freezing, as staying hydrated is crucial for cats in cold weather.
- Heated Pads or Blankets: Invest in heated pads designed for outdoor use or microwavable warm blankets. Place these in the shelter to provide additional warmth.
- Limit Outdoor Time: Minimize the time outdoor cats spend in the cold. Encourage them to come inside during extreme weather, especially during severe cold spells.
- Regular Check-ups: Monitor outdoor cats for signs of cold-related issues such as frostbite or hypothermia. If you notice any problems, seek prompt veterinary attention.
By implementing these measures, you can help ensure that outdoor cats remain warm, comfortable, and healthy throughout the winter months.
FAQ’s
Do cats get cold?
Indeed, cats can sense and be affected by the cold. Because they’re not accustomed to extreme weather, they’re susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite. It’s advisable to ensure your cat stays warm in winter. Particularly, exercise additional caution with young and elderly cats, as they’re more sensitive to the cold compared to healthy adults.
Do cats get cold inside the house?
Yes, cats can feel cold inside the house, especially during colder seasons. Ensure your home is comfortably warm for them. Provide cozy spots with warm bedding, and consider relocating their bed to avoid drafts. If your cat shows signs of discomfort, such as seeking warmth or curling up in tight spaces, it may be beneficial to adjust the indoor temperature or provide additional blankets for comfort.
How to Care for an Elderly Cat in cold?
Caring for an elderly cat in the cold involves special attention to their comfort and health. Provide a warm and cozy indoor environment, ensuring they have soft bedding and access to heating sources.
Adjust their diet to meet changing nutritional needs, promoting joint health and maintaining a healthy weight. Regular veterinary check-ups become crucial, addressing age-related issues promptly. Keep them active with gentle play and consider a senior cat-friendly diet.
Additionally, monitor their hydration, as cold weather may affect water intake. Lastly, be attentive to signs of discomfort or illness, providing the extra care and warmth they require in their golden years.
I think my cat has a cold, what should I do?
If you suspect your cat has a cold, monitor for symptoms like sneezing or nasal discharge. Keep them warm and comfortable, provide a quiet space, and ensure they stay hydrated. Consider using a humidifier to ease breathing.
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your veterinarian for professional advice. Never administer human cold medications without veterinary guidance, as they can be harmful to cats.
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His professional interests include humane education, ethics, small animal behavior, and veterinary. As a pet lover from school life, having grown up with two cats and a dog. If he isn’t spending time with his friends and family, Justin enjoys traveling. Learn more about Justin here.
