Changing weather means changing needs for your cat, especially during the winter. If you keep your cat indoors (or keep her in just for the winter) she 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 she normally sleeps on the floor, consider moving her bed somewhere higher to avoid draftsIf you have an older cat, or if your cat has arthritis, the cold weather may make her joints stiff and uncomfortable. She may find jumping difficult, so you'll need to help her find ways of getting to her favorite sleeping places, especially if they're high up. Consider moving a chair or other piece of furniture to make a 'ladder' so she 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
Tasty Tips
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 moldy
Cars and Garages
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 she can't get clean water she could easily drink from sources contaminated by household cleaners, road-salt and anti-freeze. Anti-freeze is especially attractive to cats and extremely dangerous, so makes sure to clean up any spills on your driveway
Related products
Kitten with Salmon
Precisely balanced nutrition with the delicious taste of minced salmon to help build immunity and a healthy digestive system
Adult Tender Chicken Dinner Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition in two delicous flavours to help fuel the energy needs of cats during the prime of their life
Adult Perfect Weight Salmon & Vegetable
Over 70% of cats lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Adult Indoor Savory Chicken Entrée Cat Food
Precisely balanced nutrition for indoor cats with the delicious taste of savory minced chicken
Related articles
Weight Gain in Your Cat & How You Can Help
Being overweight puts a cat at risk for developing many serious health issues. Weight gain indicates an increase in body fat and usually results when your cat eats too much and exercises too little.
Caring for Your Cat Through All of Life's Stages
HillsPet Nutrition provides information on proper nutrition, fitness and special needs in keeping your cat healthy and happy.
Common Health Concerns in an Overweight Cat
As a responsible pet owner you owe it to yourself and your cat to understand problems associated with overweight cats.
Brushing & Food: Keys to Maintaining Your Cat's Oral Health
Get helpful information on proper feline oral healthcare and why it's so vital to take care of your cat's teeth.
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 flavorful, 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 flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.