The cat, this robust little feline, still needs to be protected from the cold, especially in winter. Zoom on the accessories to obtain.
In winter, temperatures drop. Food, water, pads, health… Here are our best tips to protect your cat from the cold of winter. Rest assured, he resists the cold much better than you. Due toa body temperature a good degree higher than that of humans (38.5°C)but also thanks to a thick undercoat and reflexes conducive to warming the paws and coat as soon as the cold is felt.
Protect your cat: how to help it fight against the cold?
Between health and comfort, the well-being of your cat is essential. Even if you do your best to pamper him, a little help is sometimes welcome.
Take care of your cat's pads
Cold and snow can attack your cat's pads, particularly sensitive. Use a towel for him wipe paws when he comes home. If snow has stuck to the hairs, run them under lukewarm water. And check, if he has walked for a long time in the snow, that the pads do not show any damage caused by the cold.
To take care of their delicate pads which can be damaged by the coldest temperatures, do not hesitate to moisturize them regularly, as you would your hands! This balm from the Animigo brand for the muzzle and paws is both nourishing and healing. Enriched with coconut oil, jojoba, Carnauba wax and vitamin E, its natural composition will take care of your cat!
Arrange your cat's bed
Although your cat may not like change, he certainly won't be opposed to it. sleeping closer to a heat source, especially in extreme cold. You can also add a small blanket to their basket. Above all, avoid putting your sleeping basket in a draft, near a door or window, especially if the insulation is not optimal.
Another very useful option if your cat likes to lounge in the warmth is to invest in a radiator hammock which will allow him to make the most of his heat. This model from the Trixie brand gets a rating of 4.3 out of 5 on Amazon and the opinions are unanimous:
This hammock is perfect for the cat. She adopted it immediately (she is quite young, 1 year old). It becomes his refuge. It was very easy to attach it to the radiator (classic radiator) and the metal branches are adjustable.
Change your cat's diet to better cope with winter
If your cat doesn't go outside, you don't need to change its diet. On the other hand, if he has to go outside, he will need a richer diet to combat the cold. Choose grain-free and protein-rich kibble. Ask your veterinarian for advice on how to adapt your ration. The Lifelong brand has no wheat, corn, soy, egg, lactose or gluten, and has a delicious chicken taste that your cat will love.
Plus, if there's one time of year when your cat can devour their favorite treats, it's winter. Without overdoing it, it will give it energy to face these temperatures.
Give your cat enough to drink
To tolerate the cold, but also the dry heat produced by the radiators in your home, be careful that your cat does not become dehydrated. For this, the water fountain remains the ideal option and will encourage your companion to go drinking. Very quiet and practical, the fountain offered by Petlibro is considered an Amazon Choice and has more than 10,000 reviews.
If he feeds and drinks outside, make sure his water bowl don't be frozen.
Warm your cat after a cold outing
Your cat has just gone out and comes back wet from snow or rain: you must dry him quickly to prevent him from catching a cold. Let him settle neara source of heat. If he has cracks characteristic of chapped pads, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Closely monitor your cat's health in winter
If your cat coughs or sneezes, he probably has a cold. If it's just a cold, it will pass quickly. On the other hand, if the symptoms persist, consult your veterinarian.
Resistance to cold depends on the cat's lifestyle
If your cat is used to staying within the four walls of your home, its resistance to temperature changes will be less. Indoor cats generally don't like going from hot to cold in an instant. On the other hand, if your cat is used to frolicking in nature, whether it's rain, wind or snow, he won't fear much. Just be aware of his whereabouts, and let him come home when he asks.
You now know what to invest in to ensure your cat has the best winter possible!