It’s that time of year again. The snow is falling, the days are getting shorter and it is beginning to feel like winter.
As you have probably noticed by now, this season can be a bit treacherous for those in colder climates.
If you don’t take some extra precautions your cat could freeze or go hungry while you’re away from home because they refuse to eat outside food or water dishes!
In order to keep your cats safe and happy during this blizzard we’ve compiled six helpful tips.
Let’s dive in!
6 Ways to Keep your cat safe During Blizzard
Cats are known for being very curious creatures, and sometimes they just can’t resist the temptation to see what it feels like to walk outside.
It’s important that you keep your cat indoors during a snowstorm, as the cold temperature and high winds can make them feel miserable.
You will need to provide them with plenty of warmth and something soft for them to sleep on- you might want to cover their bed with an extra blanket or two in order to protect them from drafts.
1) Keep them Indoor
If your cat is an indoor/outdoor cat, make sure that they have a warm and comfortable place to sleep during the blizzard. Putting an old blanket in their favorite cozy spot inside will help them feel more secure.
Your pets should never be left outside during bad weather as conditions can get too much for them! If you do need to bring them inside, make sure their living area is well-heated and a great place for them to sleep. Allowing your pet somewhere to hide can help them feel more secure during this time and catch some much needed rest.
2) Closely Monitor your Kitty
Make sure that you are keeping a close eye on your pet at all times. You never know when they’ll try to sneak outside, or get into trouble. Try putting a radio on near their favorite sleeping spot so that you can hear them if they are up to any mischief.
If your cat is used to being an indoor cat only, make sure that you have enough food and water for them over the course of the storm. You might also want to check with your animal control agency to make sure they have enough food and water as well.
3) Keep your backup Heat Resources Ready
A blizzard is about to hit your area and you’re worried about keeping your cat safe during these harsh conditions. We have some tips for how to make sure they stay warm throughout the storm and beyond.
1) Pick a sturdy, insulated crate that can be used in various ways: a carrier, bed, or shelter from the elements. This will allow you to do so without having to use an expensive heating pad which may not work if power goes out.
2) Make sure there are plenty of fresh water sources-make sure bowels are filled with fresh water daily (or more than once). It’s also important to keep food easily accessible as cats need their energy reserves replenished during this time too!
3) Be careful when walking outside to make sure your cat isn’t too close to you. Some cats may try to sneak out under the cover of snow, or freeze if they attempt to follow you around outside.
4) If you have a heater, then use it! But be careful, a pet cannot regulate its own body temperature so always have cool water ready if the room starts to get too hot. If your cat has long hair you may want to start brushing them regularly during this time so they don’t overheat and become sick.
4) Keep your Emergency Kits Ready
You should always have an emergency kit for pet owners inside of a pet first aid kit or in the drawer next to it at all times. Make sure that you are prepared for any situation that might occur, even if you cat were to get stuck outside during the blizzard.
For outdoor cats during a blizzard you should have an emergency kit that includes:
- Flashlight with extra batteries in case power goes out.
- Extra emergency food and bowls for your cat in case power goes out. That way they have fresh water if the pipes freeze or you are not home to give them a drink.
- A collar with an id tag just in case they get lost (it’s important to put your phone number on it as well). The reason this is important is that in case your cat gets lost you can easily be tracked down by calling the number on the tag.
Don’t forget to make sure they have a comfortable bed and blanket or sleeping spot, even if it’s just a small blanket crumpled up for them to sleep on while you are at work during this time, it will keep them warm and comfy.
You must bring your cat out into the snow during a blizzard. Always make sure they’re wearing a winter jogging suit and boots when they need to go outside.
If your cat is indoor, then you don’t need to worry about the freezing temperatures. If they are outdoors, if there is a predicted blizzard, locate an insulated place for them to stay where it’s sheltering from wind. A shed or garage would be ideal in this situation. If this cannot be
Be prepared with emergency information that includes an alternate phone number and location. It’s important to always let people know where your cat is located in case of an emergency, even if you are home with them.
5) Give Dry Food and Plenty of Fresh Water
Keep a set of dry cat food out at all times just in case power goes out. If this happens a precaution that would be wise would be to make sure the area your cat is staying in has a non-electric water supply. Make sure they drink lots of water before going outside- this helps prevent dehydration from drinking melted snow which contains less nutrients than fresh water does.
6) Use Winter Clothes for your Cat
Consider getting your cat winter clothes to help keep them warm while outside. These can include: velcro boots, scarfs or hats, gloves and more!
Keeping your cat safe during a blizzard can be stressful, but if you are prepared you can rest easy knowing that your pet will be comfortable and protected from harm. Always remember to keep an eye on them at all times, as they could try to come up with crazy schemes in order to get out.
There you have it. I hope this has been helpful for any future pet owners, and of course good luck tracking down that pesky cat during the blizzard!
Hypothermia in Cats During Blizzard
In the midst of a blizzard, hypothermia can be dangerous to your cat. The cold weather causes their body temperature to drop and they start shivering violently from the cold. Hypothermia in cats is a serious condition that needs immediate medical attention, but there are some preventative measures you can take before it gets too bad.
One way to keep your cat warm during winter is by providing them with an extra blanket or bedding in their favorite spot as well as other cozy spots around the house like under tables or near heat vents. A heating pad set on low will also do wonders for keeping them warm and feeling snug. As always, make sure that you’re checking up on any animal who appears sick, injured or unresponsive.
Before you know it, winter will be over and your cat will be back in their warm, cozy bed with a fresh bowl of clean water and all the food they could ask for. Until then, make sure that you are taking care of them the way they take care of you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is important to make sure that your cats are inside during a blizzard. Use winter clothes and other items like heated bedding or heating pads to help them feel comfortable when they are indoors. Cats can be more sensitive than dogs in the cold so don’t forget about their needs!
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