Winter Care Tips...

Sometimes we have to remind ourselves that cats love to be warm the same as we do. There are things you can do to help keep your kitty warm and safe during the winter.

If you have cats that are outside, make sure they have a warm shelter and non-frozen water. Leave a hot water bottle, wrapped in a towel or blanket, out for a warm spot to cuddle.

Conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and hormonal imbalances can compromise a cats ability to maintain their body heat. Kittens and older cats are very vulnerable to the cold as well.

Cats love to curl up next to a car engine to stay warm. They can be seriously injured if they get caught in the engine when it is started. Check beneath the car or blow the horn so they are allowed to escape. Antifreeze is a deadly poison to cats. Clean up any spills and keep in a safe place.

Use caution with fires or space heaters. This is another where they can accidentally harm themselves. Make sure to have your house checked for any carbon carbon monoxide leakage.

Be extremely careful with older and arthritic cats. They can be stiff and tender. Look for any signs of discomfort: crying, shivering, very reluctant to move, or looking for warm place to hide.

Hypothermia occurs when your pet is unable to keep their body temperature from falling below normal. As hypothermia progresses the cats muscles stiffen, heart and breathing decrease, and they are not able to respond to stimuli. If any of these symptoms are noticed, contact us immediately. Winter can be a
dangerous time of the year, but not if we take the precautions necessary to keep our loved ones safe.