Cats that are used to being outdoors need this freedom even in winter. But forays into ice and snow can also be dangerous for your velvet paws. Early darkness, fog and cold endanger the animals and cat owners should be prepared for this.
Cats that are active outside in winter need to be fed more to have enough energy available. It is advisable to increase the amount once winter sets in. However, weight should be checked regularly. The animal is allowed to gain a little weight, but not get fat.
As temperatures drop, your cat’s coat will gradually thicken, which will provide good protection from the cold. To protect the cats even more, it is advisable to provide their furry friends with shelter outside. This can be a covered space in the shed or garage. The walls should be insulated with cardboard or cork to keep the room warm and windproof. The room should also be raised slightly so that the cold of the floor does not affect the cats.
Fog and early dusk pose a major threat to stray cats, as they can be overlooked by motorists crossing the street. While a reflective cat collar can help, it can also be dangerous as it can cause injury if the cat gets caught on fences and bushes. In the worst case, she cannot extricate herself from such a situation. Here each owner must carefully weigh the pros and cons. Another source of danger is standing water. If you have a garden pond, you should cover it. This prevents the cat from breaking through on a thin layer of ice.
Installing a cat flap is recommended to ensure unhindered entry and exit. Cats actually prefer it warm in winter and like to stay indoors. Nevertheless, even an outdoor cat wants to leave its home from time to time.