Cats are very resourceful creatures, which possess good survival skills. However, when the cold chill of the winter sets in, they may also be vulnerable to a lot of hazards and perils. There are some things that we mistakenly do with our cats that may cause some risk to them at these moments. In this article, we are going to discuss about the different cat cold weather myths or mistakes that we need to avoid to keep our cats comfortable all throughout the winter months. Give this article a read and learn more!

What are the cat cold weather mistakes that we need to avoid?

Here are some of the most common cat cold weather myths or mistakes that we need to start avoiding once the winter colds rush in:

Not making the home safety proof.

Cats, as we know, have dexterous ability in squeezing in small spaces, just to keep themselves cozy and warm. However, some of the spaces they might be drawn, may be dangerous too, just like in the window nooks and fireplaces. We need to keep the fireplaces sealed up and screened off. Further, cats are also easy to get drawn to warm spaces –you might want to buy some space heaters.

Not caring for the dry skin of the cat.

Even though staying indoors is the best for the cats, the dry heat, which keeps the home warm may also dry out the skin and the coat. Adding some omega-3 fatty acids that may be available in the diet, may help in keeping its skin and coat healthy and shiny. Talk to your veterinarian regarding the formulas, as well as the recommended dosage.

Not taking appropriate precautions in hillside and rural areas.

It is much harder for the wild animals like coyotes to find sufficient food sources in the winter month. Be wary about your cat and have a proper precaution –your cat might end up being a meal for the predators. You need to keep it supervised indoors.

Management of weight.

The indoor cats do not commonly need more calories in the winter months. However, when they spend some time outside, it might be a good idea that you increase their food intake. This is to compensate for the extra calories they burn –in order to keep themselves warm. However, consult with your veterinarian first before you change the diet of your cat.

Not giving a reliable water source.

Cats may get dehydrated in the winter months, just like they do in the summer months. It is so important to replenish regularly a fresh water source so it will not be tempted in looking for some other sources, which might be contaminated. Make sure that the water source that you will give does not freeze.

Proper care for older cats.

The older cats with some conditions like arthritis, might have a hard time in tolerating the colder weather, most especially if they have some achy joints. An extra soft bedding can bring a comfort. Older cats may also get more confused –keep a close eye.

Not paying attention to the cat’s behavior.

Though the signs of hypothermia, like sudden change in the behavior, non-responsiveness, or slow or sluggish movement are obvious, cats are good at camouflaging their own discomfort. They are capable of hiding their own symptoms. They might stay outside much longer than what they are ought to or hide their own pain. You need to keep a close eye on them, so that they do not miss any chance to catch whatever illnesses.

Proper identification.

In the cold weather, it is so easy for the cats to lose their scent back home. In case the cat wears a safety collar, it might come apart so make certain that it’s micro chopped with the latest information. During the holiday season, cats have a much higher chance of escaping, in case there is a lot of foot traffic at home. Therefore, keep a close watch to the cat.

Poor grooming.

Cats possess a topcoat of rougher fur and an undercoat that is so soft and fluffy. It uses these in fending off the wind, as well as the rain. If you happen to bathe the cat too much in the winter time, or shave its coat, it loses its natural oil on its fur, which is supposedly beneficial in repelling the moisture.

Letting the cat outside when it is cold.

If you cannot go outside your home in a regular jacket, then your cat should not as well. The rain and the snow, may cause illness and hypothermia. The fur of the cats just really works when the temperature is dry. If the cat’s fur happen to get matted from being snowy and wet, it may not trap the heat among the hair filters, which is what it supposed to do.

There you have it –the most common cat cold weather mistakes that you need to avoid. So, the next time that you get to experience winter in your area, bear these in mind.