Thursday, April 3, 2008
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Cats that Live outdoors, Strays& Ferals by Lil @ 3:04 pm
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your outside cat as the weather starts getting colder needs to physically adjust to the temperature change, grow a thicker coat and build up a resistance to the weather.
The cats that spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. So the cat owners may also have to change the eating habits of their cats during the winter.
Check food and water often to make certain they are fresh and unfrozen. Don't use metal bowls outside during the winter. Your cat's tongue may accidentally stick to the bowl. Sometimes the cat owners don't realize that a water bowl has frozen and their cats can't get anything to drink. The cats that don't have access to clean, unfrozen water are more likely to drink out of puddles or gutters, which can be polluted with oil, antifreeze, household cleaners, and other chemicals.
Especially important for every outdoor cat is to have a place adequate sheltered during cold weather. Ensure your cat with insulated house. The house should be large enough for turning around, yet small enough to conserve body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
Never use newspaper, towels, or blankets inside a cat's shelter. They will retain the cold and become stiff and hard. Instead, use straw.
During the winter, cats sometimes sleep under the hood of your cars or in the garage where it is warm and comfortable. You should be aware that the antifreeze is of particular concern, as it can be deadly for cats that lick it from garage floors. If your cat sleeps under the hood of your car, when you start the motor she could get caught in or flung about by the fan belt, causing serious injury or even death. To prevent this, bang loudly on the hood and sides of your car before turning on the ignition to give the cat a chance to escape.
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