Despite the cold, your cats and snow can co-exist happily

Cats, particularly house-hold cats that live indoors most of their lives, may have a strong dislike of cold, winter weather. More specifically, cats and snow don’t mix well. Snow is typically cold, wet and may range in texture from being soft or hard and crunchy as well as deep and difficult to walk through. Smaller animals and pets typically dislike extreme temperatures as well as obstacles such as snow that make it difficult to maneuver through environments. As well, cats typically feel overwhelmed by the appearance and introduction of something new to them. As a result, the first few encounters with snow may prove to be more frightening and intimidating. This coupled with the fact they tend to sink in snow due to their light weight increases fear of winter precipitation for life. Follow some of the tips below on what to do when cats and snow don’t mix to keep your pet happy this winter.

Snow Fears

First, it’s important to determine just how much your cats and snow don’t mix. In other words, to what degree do they get along or “like” each other. Some cats may actually like the snow and not be bothered by its presence. In fact, cats may stay out for several hours in the cold and snow during the winter and come scratching at your door only when they ready to go back indoors. In contrast, other cats may be aggravated by the snow. They can put up with having to go out in it for short periods of time during the time, but prefer to stay indoors. Aggravation and mild fears of the snow is often noticed via shaking of the paws and carefully treading snowy surfaces. Still there are other cats that may experience moderate to severe snow fears, meaning they are scared to be put down in it. These cats may run away quickly seeking warmth and support of their owners or a safe surface. 

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Abstinence

If cats and snow really don’t mix, the ideal solution would be to keep them away from the snow. A cat that has an extreme fear of snow may act out or try to run away from the snow and you if put in a snowy environment that they deem unsafe. A scared cat may try to escape by taking off and running into a dangerous situation such as traffic or risk getting lost in the woods. Hence, keeping your cat indoors at all times is the ideal solution to winter woes. In this case, be sure that the cat isn’t loitering or lingering near open doors especially when you, friends or family members are constantly streaming in and out.

Keep snow time minimal

Try keeping outdoor winter-time activities for your cat to a minimum. Ideally, indoor house-trained cats should have their own litter box and not be forced to go outdoors for bathroom purposes when needed. If you have a cat that tends to go both in and outdoors, focus on keeping it indoors during the winter. Set the litter box up in a readily accessible area that the cat frequents often, is out of your way and safe.

Outside trips

If you are taking your cat on a trip or a visit to the veterinarians’ office, pet store or family members, it is safest to personally carry your cat to your vehicle. Avoid having the cat run outside independently as, unlike dogs, most cats have a tendency to do their own things and not follow commands. It is not likely the cat knows it is going for a car trip – or wants to! Either carry the cat tightly in your arms or use a cat carrying case while both outdoors and in the car.

Wipe those paws

There are occasions that your cat will venture out into the snow and come back cold and with wet, possibly snow-packed paws. Help decrease the discomfort experienced by your cat by wiping their paws and wet fur with a dry towel. Furthermore, a little mat or warm cat basket that has a cat comforter in it makes for a pleasant and dry home to return to.

Although cats and snow may not always mix, it bears notice that they do share one characteristic with each other: they are both unpredictable! Watch out for signs that your cat doesn’t like the snow early on to plan ahead and avoid any winter woes or mishaps.