No matter how gloomy the winter is, we will always find something to cheer us up – the beautiful white snow, the upcoming holidays, the cozy evenings at home …
However, the same cannot be said for cats, which for the most part do not get along well with the cold. On the coldest winter days, they need some special care to make sure your cat is calm and purrs happily, huddled next to you on the couch.
You may think that her fur + the heating in the house are enough to make a kitten happy, but this is not true.
Here are some more tips on how she and you can be ready for the coldest days and not worry, even if it’s snowing outside and the thermometer shows below zero.
Start by providing your cat with some really warm places around your home.
No, a cat’s fur is not a magic coat that will keep it warm no matter the circumstances. And cats, as we all know, love to be warm, even hot, so make sure you have some really warm places around your home where your pet can take a nap.
It is a great idea to place a cat bed around the heater or radiator or somewhere directly under the warm jet of the stove / air conditioner. Provide at least one or two more places covered with a blanket or fluffy blanket, and if your cat likes to stand on the windowsills, cover there as well.
If you want to spend more money, you can buy from the special plush beds or houses for cats, which have a special thicker bottom and whose plush cat you will surely like.
Take care of your cat’s fur
Even if you have a short-haired cat, pay special attention to its fur and do not save time from combing to save the collection of whole hairs from the furniture.
The reason is that when the weather gets cold, your pet changes its coat with a thicker one. Daily thorough combing with a thick brush will get rid of nasty hair everywhere, will help the growth of healthy and vital hair and, last but not least, will bring you closer to your cat.
In addition, combing will help the cat to have healthier and shinier fur, although it may not be long-haired.
Pay attention to your pet’s food
Many believe that the cat needs more food in the winter, but this could be dangerous for the animal and lead to unwanted weight gain.
What is needed written is a stronger and more nutritious food, usually “wet” type. Many brands already offer special cat foods enriched with vitamins and minerals, as well as those for healthier fur or better digestion. It is best for your veterinarian to tell you what food to choose for your cat for the colder months.
In any case, you should pay attention to how you store cat cans and pouches, especially if you like to be quite warm at home. It is best to store food in a cold room, basement, attic or refrigerator to make sure it is fresh and edible.
Hide dangerous objects
Cats are curious creatures, but their inexhaustible passion for exploring the world around them can hurt them. Make sure things like antifreeze, wiper fluid, batteries, candles and other chemicals are locked in a safe place and your pet has no access to them, no matter how much he walks around the house.
Some houseplants that we have harvested indoors for the winter could also be dangerous to the cat. Some beautiful plants such as Poinsettia, Amaryllis, lily, Kalanchoe, chrysanthemums, Christmas rose are a joy to our eyes, but are poisonous to cats.
Strictly follow all medications used to treat seasonal colds and flu. This is especially true of aspirin, painkillers and flu powders.
It is wiser not to let your cat out at all when it is cold and / or snowy
Some cat owners have a habit of letting them go for walks from time to time or every day, but in winter it is not a good idea. Sharp pebbles and sticks can be hidden in the accumulated snow, on which the cat can injure its paws, and from the cold and wet weather your pet can easily catch a cold.
Therefore, the wisest decision is to stop outdoor walks or allow them only on warmer, drier and sunnier days. Instead, bet on games at home and don’t let writing get bored and lack movement and fun.
