Fall is a beautiful time of year: the air is crisp and cool, the foliage is absolutely beautiful, and it’s perfect weather for hoodies and bonfires. Kitties often get quite frisky and zoomy as the temperatures fall. You may need to keep a close eye on Fluffy, as there are some seasonal dangers to be aware of. A local Hendersonville, NC vet lists some of them below.
Outdoor Hazards
Cats are always safer indoors. Fluffy may enjoy exploring, but as soon as she sets her cute little paws outside, she’s at risk from a slew of potential threats. These include cars, weather, other cats, and wild animals. Chemicals are also something to be aware of. For instance, many people fill their cars with antifreeze, which is extremely toxic to cats. Many types have a taste cats find appealing, which makes it even more dangerous. Keep your furry buddy inside. If you do let your kitty go outside, make sure that she has an emergency shelter. You can buy or make cat houses, but a storage tote with a hole cut in one side and newspapers stuffed inside it will also work.
Decorations
Our feline pals are very frisky and playful, which is both adorable and dangerous. Kitties don’t know what is and isn’t safe for them to play with. (Actually, some of them seem determined to go for things that are least safe, but that’s another topic.) Keep anything that could be a choking or strangling hazard out of paws’ reach. That includes things like garlands, small decorations, and plastic items.
Grooming
Kitties tend to shed more heavily than usual at this time of year. Brushing your feline buddy will help remove dead fur and dander from her coat. That will help maximize the insulating properties of that pretty fur. If Fluffy is a heavy shedder, and/or has long hair, you may want to ask your vet about hairball preventative.
Parasite Control
While fleas and ticks aren’t as active in cold weather, they pose a year-round threat. At this time of year, many of them will be trying to get inside. Keep up with your cute pet’s parasite control.
Cuddles And Comfort
Here’s a fun fact: kitties sleep even more than usual when it’s cold or dreary outside. Those rainy autumn days make great cuddle weather! Offer your feline friend comfy beds and soft blankets to snuggle up in.
Please contact us, your local Hendersonville, NC animal clinic, for all of your pet’s veterinary care needs. We’re here for you!
