Changing weather means changing needs for your cat, especially during the winter. If you keep your cat indoors (or indoors just for the winter) they won't be affected by the drop in temperature or the hazards of cold weather. But there are still a few things you can do to give your cat a little extra help.
Indoors
If your cat normally sleeps on the floor, consider moving the bed somewhere higher to avoid drafts- If you have an older cat, or if your cat has arthritis, the cold weather may make joints stiff and uncomfortable. Jumping may be difficult, so you'll need to help your cat find ways of getting to their favourite sleeping places, especially if they're high up. Consider moving a chair or other piece of furniture to make a 'ladder' so they won't have to jump as high
Outdoors
- Outdoor cats should be encouraged to keep spending time outdoors to get used to the changing weather. The dropping temperature will encourage your cat’s body to adapt by growing a thicker coat and building up winter immunities
- If your cat has an outdoor shelter, raise it off the ground. Frozen earth will draw out more heat from the shelter than moving air
- Turn the entrance away from the wind and consider laying down extra-bedding. Be careful to avoid anything that will retain moisture and freeze or become mouldy
Cars and Garages
Tasty Tips
- If your cat has access to your garage or car be careful when starting it up. Cats will sometimes sleep on top of the engines of parked cars because they provide shelter from the wind and are sometimes still warm
- Never leave your cat unattended in the car in the winter. The cold weather can quickly turn the inside of a car into a refrigerator
Feeding time
- If you leave cat food outside for your cat, check it a couple times a day to make sure it's not frozen
- It is particularly important that your cat has unfrozen water. If cats can't get clean water they may end up drinking from sources contaminated by household cleaners, road-salt and antifreeze. Antifreeze is especially attractive to cats and extremely dangerous, so make sure to clean up any spills on your driveway
Related products
Adult Wet Cat Food with Chicken
Tender chunks in gravy for cats, with high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle. With vitamin E and omega-3s & -6s for healthy skin and balanced minerals to support healthy vital organs.
Adult Wet Cat Food with Chicken
Tender chunks in gravy for cats, with high-quality protein to maintain lean muscle. With vitamin E and omega-3s & -6s for healthy skin and balanced minerals to support healthy vital organs.
Light Adult Wet Cat Food Chicken
Tender chunks in gravy for cats, with L-carnitine and fewer calories for ideal weight management. Packed with high-quality protein, omega-6s, and vitamin E for shiny fur and healthy skin.
Mature Adult Wet Cat Food with Chicken
Hill's Science Plan Mature Adult Wet Cat Food Premium Chunks in Sauce with Chicken is a complete pet food for mature adult cats 7+ years old
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Microchipping
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Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your cat on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your cat's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavourful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.