Top tips to keep your cat safe as temperatures plummet

Plunging temperatures, icy conditions and snowfall present a number of risks for cats, particularly those who like to wander outside.

Following these simple tips can help to keep felines feeling fine:

• Cats are at increased risk of road accidents after nightfall - try to keep your cat indoors overnight and time meals to keep your cat away from roads when they are at their busiest

• Antifreeze is lethal for cats so always keep this out of your cat’s way and clear up any antifreeze spills immediately

• Ensure your cat can reach his chosen toileting site and if your cat is seeing snow for the first time, consider giving him access to a safe and enclosed area such as a garden and accompany him when he goes out

• If your cat does venture out when it’s snowy, wipe off any road grit and other substances that may stick to his paws or fur when he returns

• Provide shelter for cats that go outside. Keep the doors of sheds and outbuildings closed, wedged slightly open or install a cat-flap so cats do not become trapped inside

• Check your cat-flap regularly to ensure it hasn’t frozen over or become blocked by snow and if you provide an outdoor water source, check it hasn’t frozen over

• If your cat seems reluctant to venture outside in snow or ice, provide an indoor litter tray

• Cats may climb into vehicle engines for warmth. Be vigilant, and check beneath or knock on the bonnet before starting your vehicle

• Take special care of cats with arthritis, as the cold can severely affect inflamed joints. Provide additional warm and comfortable places to rest or sleep. If your cat is finding it hard to reach favourite resting places then look at ways of making it easier for him. Also ensure he can easily access his chosen toileting site

• Neutering is vital, not only to prevent unwanted kittens being born but to reduce roaming, especially during bad weather. Ensuring your cat is microchipped also increases the chance of being reunited if he becomes lost

For advice on cat care, please visit www.cats.org.uk/cats-and-cold-weather