Do you have a kitty? If so, you may have noticed that our feline friends seem to think that they are invincible. At the end of the day, however, Fluffy is actually very small and fragile, and can easily be hurt. Winter can be a very dangerous time for a bold little furball! Below, a Bucks County, PA vet lists some winter dangers for kitties.

Weather

The biggest danger winter poses for cats is the cold weather. Kitties that go outdoors can get frostbite, particularly on their ears, toes, and tails. Deep snow can also be very hazardous for our feline pals. We recommend that Fluffy stay safe and sound indoors. However, if you do let your furball out, make sure she has an emergency shelter, and bring her in at night. You’ll also want to keep your kitty comfy and cozy indoors whenever there is a storm approaching, or when temperatures plummet.

Chemicals

Snow, salt, sand, and chemical deicers are all dangerous for cats. Fluffy could get sick just by licking her paws after walking through a treated area! Antifreeze is another issue: it’s poisonous to kitties, but unfortunately has a taste that many of our furry friends enjoy. Clean any spills right away, and put sand or cat litter down on the damp spot.

Flames/Heating Devices

Scented candles can make your home look and smell cozy and inviting. Unfortunately, cats and candles can be a very dangerous combination. Keep candles and potpourri burners in high spots, well out of paws’ reach. If you use a fireplace, woodstove, or space heater, you’ll also want to take steps to make sure your cat can’t knock it over or get too close to it.

Food

While some cats are quite picky, others will eat pretty much anything. Those delicious seasonal foods and treats can be very dangerous to kitties! Some of the things that are toxic to cats include garlic and onions, chocolate, raw dough or yeast, dairy products, and anything that contains xylitol. When you want to offer your furball a special snack, always choose healthy, suitable foods. Some good options are plain, cooked meat, without the bones, skin, or fat; kitty milk; deli meat; or, of course, canned tuna. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

As your Bucks County, PA veterinary clinic, we’re here to provide your pet with excellent care. Please contact us anytime!