We all know cats are sensitive creatures and also creatures of habit, which is why it may not come as a surprise to learn that the change in seasons can bring upset to our cats. As the night’s draw in and the cold weather comes, cats are forced to change their daily routine which can be upsetting for our feline friends.

Cats are complex animals but there are some things you can do to ensure the transition into winter is one which is a comfortable one.

• Most cats prefer to snuggle up inside during the winter but if yours is the outdoors type make sure they always have a warm place they can go to at all times. And, if it’s really cold, keep them inside even if they are unimpressed – pet cats aren’t used to the extreme cold and can develop hypothermia and frostbite.
• Cats left outside may venture somewhere they shouldn’t to get warm which can lead to them getting trapped without food or water. If in doubt, keep your cat inside.
• Treat your cat to a new cosy bed or radiator hammock. A cat’s normal routine is normally distrupted during the winter months so why not treat them to somewhere cosy and safe to sleep to help them with stress.
• If you have a cat which is particularly upset by small changes we would advise using a Feliway diffuser plug in over the winter months.
• Make sure your cat is fitted with a microchip so if they do wander off in search of a warm place they can be traced back to you.
• Cats that usually go to the toilet outside may need a litter tray inside, especially when there’s snow on the ground. Also, when snow is deep cat flaps can become blocked so you’ll need to check them to make sure that your cat can get out and, more importantly, back in again. It is essential you provide a litter tray in your cat’s home over winter, even if they do not normally use one during the warmer months.
• Look out for hidden dangers over the festive season – poinsettia are popular Christmas plants but they’re actually poisonous to cats.
• Avoid using fake snow on your Christmas tree, cats can be mischievous and enjoy chewing tree, however fake snow can actually be toxic to cats. Care should also be taken with tinsel to ensure it is not eaten causing a potential blockage.
• Avoid using anti-freeze, even one to two licks of anti-freeze can cause Kidney failure in your cat. Cats are drawn to the sweet taste of the anti-freeze and drink, therefore we advise you avoid using it completely to avoid the risk of ingestion.