Outdoor Winter Hazards For Cats

Do you have a kitty? If so, we strongly recommend keeping her safe and sound indoors, especially in winter. Fluffy may have an adventurous spirit, but she’s also very small and vulnerable. While things like cars and weather pose threats to outdoor cats all year long, winter adds a few more dangers. A local vet lists a few of them in this article.

Darkness

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

Temperatures

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

Increased Risk Of Getting Lost

Kitties usually stay within a certain distance from home. However, Fluffy may venture further than you think. Snow and ice can mask landmarks and scents that help your feline companion find her way home.

Chemicals

Many of the chemicals people use in winter are toxic to cats. Antifreeze is a good example of this: it’s extremely poisonous to our feline pals. Unfortunately, many types have a taste that kitties find appealing. There are pet-friendly versions available. However, even if you use these, your neighbor may not.

Entrapment

Kitties often like to explore nooks and crannies. If Fluffy decides to take shelter in a neighbor’s shed during a storm, she could get trapped inside.

Predators

If you live in a rural area, your feline buddy may also be at increased risk from predators … especially those looking down from above. The white snow and lack of foliage can make Fluffy easier to spot from the sky.

Tips

If you do let your furry pal out, or if your kitty is an opportunistic escapee who will dash out the door any time she has a chance, be sure to offer Fluffy an emergency shelter. 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 in Easley, SC, today!