Caring for your cats in winter

The CDCH team shares some tips for keeping your cat warm and content this winter.

Winter blog (dogs) (9)

Check for salty paws

 

As cats love to wander we would advise getting into the habit of checking their paws whenever they come inside.

 

They may have wandered through some salt or grit so try wiping their paws with a damp cloth or towel just in case.

 

This is especially important for long-haired cats in snowy conditions, as snow can accumulate in their lengthy fur and cause irritation to the paws.

Winter blog (dogs) (8)

Avoid antifreeze

 

It can be an easy solution to reach for the antifreeze when your windscreen is frozen and you have places you need to be. But this dangerous product can be fatal if ingested by cats and other wildlife.

 

The problem is that antifreeze’s taste is enticing to cats. Avoid use wherever possible and clean up any spills. If you think your cat may have ingested antifreeze then it’s important to act fast and seek immediate veterinary advice.

Avoid antifreeze

 

It can be an easy solution to reach for the antifreeze when your windscreen is frozen and you have places you need to be. But this dangerous product can be fatal if ingested by cats and other wildlife.

 

The problem is that antifreeze’s taste is enticing to cats. Avoid use wherever possible and clean up any spills. If you think your cat may have ingested antifreeze, seek immediate veterinary advice.

Offer plenty of cosy spots in the house
Winter blog (dogs) (11)

Ensure your cat’s indoor comfort by drying them off when they come in, keeping your home warm and providing a variety of cosy spots for them to snuggle up. This will be vital for older cats and those with medical conditions that affect their ability to regulate body temperature.

Winter blog (dogs) (10)

Provide outdoor shelter from the elements

 

We all know that cats will make up their owns minds in life so it’s important we offer them plenty of choice!

 

During winter, your cat may still prefer to spend long periods outdoors, so it’s important they have somewhere safe to shelter away from any harsh conditions to keep warm.

 

Providing small shelters in the garden or access to a shed are great examples.

Provide outdoor shelter from the elements

 

We all know that cats will make up their owns minds in life so it’s important we offer them plenty of choice!

 

During winter, your cat may still prefer to spend long periods outdoors, so it’s important they have somewhere safe to shelter away from any harsh conditions to keep warm.

 

Providing small shelters in the garden or access to a shed are great examples.

Winter blog (dogs) (10)

Give your car a friendly ‘cat tap’

 

Cats can commonly be found curled up in the arch of your car wheels to cosy up to the warmth of a recently running engine.

 

Knock on the bonnet of your car and around the wheel arches just in case you have a furry stowaway nestled in there.

Winter blog (dogs) (12)
Provide a litter tray, just in case!

It is always good practice to provide your cat with a litter tray in the house, even if they prefer to go outside.

 

This is particularly important in winter if you find they are spending more time indoors as they may not want to venture out in the cold for a toilet break.

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