Autumn Cat Care Tips

Fall is officially here! It’s always nice to enjoy some cooler weather after a long, hot summer. However, just like any other season, fall does present some specific dangers for our furry pals. A local Oconomowoc, WI vet offers tips on autumn cat care below.

This can be a hazardous time of year for our feline buddies. Many wild animals are looking for spots to hibernate, and can be more aggressive than usual. Because many people treat their yards in autumn, there’s also a danger from lawn/garden chemicals, such as fertilizers. Fluffy could get sick just by walking through a recently-treated spot, and then licking her paws! Antifreeze is another concern: it’s extremely poisonous to cats. Weather also poses a threat to your furry little explorer. Play it safe, and keep your kitty indoors. This is extra important around Halloween, which can be a very dangerous holiday for cats. If you do let your pet go out, make sure she has an emergency shelter. A storage tote with a hole in one side will work in a pinch.

Our feline pals may be wearing fur coats, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t susceptible to cold weather. (Note: although cats are not cold-blooded, we’re not sure they have actually realized that yet, as they certainly do love sunbeams and warm beds.) Offer Fluffy lots of comfy napping spots. This is especially important for older cats, as they often get very stiff and sore in cold weather. For extra purrs, get your kitty a thermal bed.

Cats are both playful and curious. Keep that in mind when decorating your home for the season. Put decorations, scented candles, wires and cords, candies, and candy wrappers well out of reach of those cute little paws. Better safe than sorry!

Fall is a peak shedding time, so give your cat a helping hand with her beauty regimen. Brushing Fluffy regularly will trap her dead fur in a brush, which will help prevent hairballs. You’ll also need to keep up with your kitty’s parasite control.

Those cold, dreary fall afternoons are purrfect for relaxing with kitties. Settle down with a good book or movie, a hot beverage, and your pet, and just enjoy some R&R.

Please feel free to contact us, your Oconomowoc, WI vet clinic, anytime. We’re happy to help!