Changing weather means changing needs for your cat, with the summer and winter months bringing particular problems for cats.

Winter

Most areas in South Africa dont experience severe winter conditions and cats with access to indoors should not be affected by the hazards of cold weather.   Your cat's body will naturally adapt by growing a thicker coat and building up winter immunities. But there are also a few things you can do to give your cat a little extra help.

Sleeping Arrangements

If she normally sleeps on the floor, consider moving her bed somewhere higher to avoid drafts.  And if your cat has a favorite outdoor shelter try to raise it off the ground. Turn the entrance away from the wind and consider laying down extra-bedding. Be careful though, to avoid anything that will retain moisture and become mouldy.

Older Cats

If you have an older cat, or if your cat has arthritis, the cold weather may make her joints stiff and uncomfortable. She may find jumping difficult, so you’ll need to help her find ways of getting to her favourite sleeping places, especially if they’re high up.  You could move a chair or other piece of furniture to make a ‘ladder’ so she wont have to jump as high.

Cars and Garages

If she has access to your garage or car be careful when starting up. Cats will sometimes sleep on top of the engines of parked cars because they provide shelter from the wind and are sometimes still warm.

Summer

Flea-time

You may want to talk to your vet about preventative flea treatments, especially if you have a cat that loves the outdoors. Remember to treat not only the cat itself but also her bedding and favorite sleeping places.

Sunburn

If you have a white cat, her fur and skin won’t provide enough cover to protect it from the sun -especially around the ears and nose area where the hair is fine.  You’ll need to look out for sunscreen products at your vet or vet shop otherwise try a dab of sunscreen.

Extreme Heat

Never leave your cat alone in the car when it’s hot. A cat can be severely ill or die from even short exposure to the extreme heat that can build up inside a car.

More water

Both indoor and outdoor cats need extra water during hot weather, as they can easily become dehydrated. Watch out for the signs of heatstroke:

• · Heavy panting
• · Glazed over eyes
• · Unsteadiness
• · Staggering, vomiting
• · A dark red or purple tongue.

If you think your cat has heatstroke you need to take her to a vet immediately. In the meantime try to lower her body temperature by applying cool (not cold or freezing) water to her body and letting her drink small amounts of cool water.

Allow your cat lick to lick some ice cubes and if you have ice packs you can apply them to your cat’s head, neck and chest.

Cats are hardy animals and can handle most changes in the weather. A little assistance along the way will keep your cat happy and healthy.