NOTE: We no longer see exotic pets. We recommend Exotic Animal Hospital of Orlando (407-286-3484) & Winter Park Veterinary Hospital (407-644-2676)

5 Ways to Help Your Cat Safely Enjoy Warm Weather

Your pet may be looking forward to enjoying the warmer weather with you as spring weather warms up and summer approaches. Here are five ways to spice up your cat’s spring and summer.

 

#1: Build your cat a catio

You’ve likely seen pictures of “catios,” which are a feline’s dream spot for safely hanging out in the fresh air. However, if you do not have the space or budget to build a fancy catio, you can still let your cat bask in cool breezes and warm sunlight by letting them venture onto a screened-in porch. If your cat is especially accommodating, you also can leash-train them to accept a harness and go for short walks in your yard.

 

#2: Place a birdbath or feeder in front of your cat’s favorite window

While looking out at passersby is all well and good, your cat will be much more interested in a view that features a birdbath and feeder. Although you may not be able to let them go outside, you can bring a bit of the outdoors to them with a well-positioned wildlife display of a bath, feeder, and house.

 

#3: Help your cat beat the heat with cool treats

If your home heats up during the summer, you can help your cat cool off with a frozen treat. Freeze chunks of tuna in water in an ice cube tray for a cold snack, or offer your cat frozen cubes of low-sodium chicken broth in their water dish to encourage them to drink more.

 

#4: Protect your light-colored cat from strong sunlight

Light-colored cats are much more susceptible to sunburn and to developing a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma when exposed to too much sun. So, keep your white cat out of direct sunlight by using curtains and blinds. Gentle morning and evening rays can be acceptable in small doses.

 

#5: Administer your cat’s parasite prevention on time 

You and your cat aren’t the only ones enjoying the warm weather—so are mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks. Keep your feline friend safe from parasitic infections and diseases by administering their prevention treatment on time each month.

 

 Before the weather warms up, make sure your cat is protected from fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes with parasite prevention medication. Contact our team today to find out what the best option is.