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Outdoor Winter Hazards For Cats

January 2 2022

Do you have a kitty …or two …or three? If you do, we highly recommend keeping her safe and sound indoors, especially in winter. Even though Fluffy may have an adventurous spirit, she’s still very small and vulnerable. Things like cars and weather pose threats to outdoor cats all year long, and winter adds a few more dangers. A local vet lists a few of them in this article. 


Darkness


At this time of year, it gets dark pretty early. That can put your furry friend at increased risk from cars or traffic. It may also be harder for her to spot potential threats. 


Temperatures


Fluffy may have a fur coat on, but cold weather can still be dangerous for her. Plus, given that your pet is so close to the ground, a few inches of snow could could easily make her tummy-deep. Frostbite is more common in cats than many people think. And kitties, in particular, are most susceptible at the tips of their tails and ears, and sometimes on their paws and legs. 


Increased Risk Of Getting Lost


Kitties tend to stay within a certain distance from home. However, Fluffy may wander further than you think. Landmarks and scents that help your feline companion find her way home may be masked by snow and ice. 


Chemicals 


Chemicals we typically use in winter are toxic to cats. Antifreeze is a good example of this: it’s extremely poisonous to our feline pals. As luck would have it, many types have a taste that kitties like. There are pet-friendly versions available. That being so, even if you use these, your neighbor may not. 


Entrapment


Most kitties like to explore crannies and nooks. This means, if Fluffy decides to take shelter in a neighbor’s shed during a storm, she could get trapped inside.


Predators


If you happen to live in a rural area, there may be an increased risk from predators for your feline buddy … especially from those looking down from above. Fluffy may be easier to spot from the sky with the lack of foliage and white snow. 


Tips


If you do decide to let your furry pal out, or if your kitty likes to dash out the door any time she has a chance, be sure to make an emergency shelter available for Fluffy. This can be a simple storage tote with a hole cut in one side.


Do you have questions about your furry buddy’s health or care? Contact us, your local animal clinic, today!