Caring for Your Cats This Winter

Photo: @mimidoescatthings

My newly converted cat-mom friend texted me one night, worried sick. She wanted to know whether something was wrong with her kitten, Mono, who has been sleeping too much. I reassured her that eating more and sleeping more is normal for cats in colder seasons.

If you were wondering, this is exactly what it's like to be a cat parent. After about fifty expensive vet visits myself, I have realised that such paranoia is a part of parenthood — even if you are a parent to mean little fur-babies. But my friend's fears weren't entirely unreasonable. Winters can be especially tough for cats, who are more vulnerable to flu or the deadly pneumonia.

This article is a beginner's guide to help you ensure your cats have a healthy, warm winter. Please consult a vet and get professional help when necessary.

STAY IN

Keep. Your. Cats. Indoors. This will guarantee that your cat is not exposed to the harsh cold, or contracts flu from unvaccinated local cats. If your cat is used to being outside, lure them in with warm sleeping spots and fun toys. If heated beddings are too fancy, fill water bottles with hot water, wrap them up and leave them in your cat's favourite napping spots. Keep your cats entertained and well fed, and they will spend more time inside the house.

CAT PROOF

If you haven't already cat-proofed your house, take this opportunity to check everything. Cats tend to seek out warmth during winter and this makes open stoves and old heaters with exposed radiators hazardous. Be vigilant, and limit what your cat has access to.

CALL YOUR VET

It is best to visit your vet right before winter hits. You can get all the necessary vaccinations, ask about any available flu shots and get a general health evaluation done. Discuss the current diet you have for your cat, and ask whether any supplements are necessary. Learn the symptoms for hypothermia, common flu and pneumonia so that you know what an emergency is and what can be handled at home. If you have a senior cat aged above eleven, they may require extra attention. Bring it up with your vet.

FOOD HABIT

Along with any vet approved supplements, introducing natural homemade food into your cat's diet would be a good idea. It will help decrease chances of dehydration as opposed to a diet based on dry cat food. You need to make sure your cat has access to fresh water and remember to change the water a few times daily for it to not get too cold.

We tend to assume our local stray cats are resilient enough to be fine with winters. However, know that short-haired local breeds are more vulnerable to the cold than others. If possible, leave water bowls with fresh water outdoors, where you know the local cats hang out. Check under your cars, bonnets and around the wheels before getting into your car in case any stray cat has taken refuge in the warmth of the car engines. You can also put up temporary shelters for your alley cats in your garage. Let us take care of our Mono, and extend that love to those who need it.