Happy Mew Year everyone!! I realize it’s been awhile since my last blog and I apologize. I decided I needed some time to de-stress (since being a cat is tough) and took a nice long vacation to the green exam room. It was everything I thought it would be; mostly because it looks the same so I knew how it would be but it was amazing nonetheless. Nothing terribly
exciting in my world, though I started to put treats towards my 401k. I can’t even fathom my senior years without them and I refuse to go back to selling catnip on the side.
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| Mason all snuggled up for winter |
Speaking of things I can’t fathom, what is the deal with this below freezing weather we’re having? I personally need heat and do not appreciate that I am unable to look out the window because Mother Nature is bitter. You and I both know that this weather can be quite hazardous and unforgiving regardless of how many legs (or lives) you have. So what am I hinting at you ask? One of my favorite places to go for more information about my health, www.veterinarypartner.com, has an article appropriately titled, “Winterize Your Pet”. I think a lot of humans assume that because we have an excess of hair that it gives us superpowers that prevent frostbite or hypothermia. They assume incorrectly; I know for a fact that cats that were given the superpowers that are geared more toward intelligence operations, not temperature control.
While keeping your pet indoors during the cold winter months is ultimately the safest way to keep your pet happy and healthy; I understand there are a few out there who do love the great outdoors. Here are some tips from Veterinary Partner to “winterize your pet.”
1. “You must provide adequate outdoor shelter. Animals must be able to get out of the elements.” Bottom line, if you aren’t able to provide the proper protection from all kinds of weather then your pet shouldn’t be outside.
“A pet must have a well-insulated structure just large enough so that he can curl up Inside to maintain body heat. The structure should also have a wind-block to protect it from wintry blasts. In the coldest parts of the country, it should also have some sort of outdoor-rated pet heating pad or other device. And be sure that there's always a supply of fresh, unfrozen water by using a heated bowl.”
2. “Animals who spend any significant amount of time outside will need more calories during cold weather. Food is fuel, and they'll need to burn it to stay warm.” It should go without saying that you need to provide the right amount of food for your pet daily. Every pet is different, just as every diet is different in its own way. Although the instructions on the food bag may serve as a guideline; it can be hard to trust since some companies out there want you to feed more so that you buy more. My advice is to speak with your veterinarian to discuss your pet’s individual dietary needs.
3. “Remember to thump on your car's hood on cold mornings. You neighbor's cat may be nestled against the engine for warmth, and thumping your car's hood will get the animal to skedaddle to safety.” It may sound ridiculous but it could ultimately save a cat’s life (and your conscience!)
Winter doesn’t necessarily only affect pets that go outdoors. It can be uncomfortable for indoor pets as well. Pets with any kind of joint pain, arthritis, history of sprains or fractures or of course pets who may not be as blessed as others when it comes to fur coverage may find winter to be very uncomfortable. Thinking about your pet’s individual needs during the winter (any season really) is the way to go. If you think your pet may be suffering from joint pain or other ailments that may make them uncomfortable, please speak with your veterinarian to determine what you need to do to ensure comfort. (Keeping them at a healthy weight is also key to helping with joint issues!) Spoil them a little and maybe get them a heated bed for underneath a blanket. They’ll thank you!!
Last but not least, don’t be afraid to fit your pet with a coat or sweater if needed. according to www.veterinarypartner.com, “Some animals really can use the extra insulation of a well-fitted sweater: older pets, and dogs who are tiny (such as Chihuahuas), or who are shorthaired and naturally lean (such as greyhounds or whippets). Overcoats can save you time drying your dog if you walk in inclement weather, especially if your pet's longhaired. And don't forget to wipe your pets' feet, legs and belly after they've been outside to keep the animal from ingesting any de-icing solutions.“ Hear that last part folks? Keep all the pitty-pats safe outside and provide protection for paws that are exposed to de-icing products! Most pet stores should carry booties/shoes made for pets and you can also find a large assortment online. Still have questions or concerns? Give us a ring! That’s what we’re here for!
For more information, visit www.veterinarypartner.com. In the meantime,
STAY WARM!! :D
Mews & Warm Snuggles,
Mason
[Although I am highly intelligent, I must give credit where credit is due. The information I am sharing with you can be found at http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=2837
]
