Fall With Fluffy

Autumn is officially upon us! Every season brings its own benefits and drawbacks, both for people and pets. Cats are generally easy keepers, but they are also quite mischievous, and have a knack for getting into mischief. Read on as an Omaha, NE vet offers some advice on spending autumn with your feline pal.

Temperature

As it starts getting colder, your kitty will instinctively look for warm napping spots. Offer her lots of warm beds to look adorable in! Fluffy may also like a thermal blanket or pet tent. Older cats may get very stiff and sore at this time of year. Your vet may recommend supplements or other options to help keep your furball comfortable.

Grooming

Fall is a peak shedding time. Fluffy may shed more than usual as she changes into her winter outfit. Brushing her regularly will help capture that fur with a brush before it gets stuck to everything. It will also help remove dead hair, dust, and tangles from her coat.

Chemicals

Toxins are one of the biggest hazards to be aware of. Lawn/garden products, such as fertilizers and rodenticides, are one concern. Fluffy only needs to walk through a treated patch and then lick her paws to ingest these dangerous chemicals! Antifreeze is another hazard. It’s extremely poisonous, but has a taste that many animals like. Fortunately, some companies now make pet-friendly versions. Opt for a pet-safe brand if you fill your car at home.

Wild Animals

We always recommend keeping cats indoors: it’s just safer for them. However, if you do let your furry pal out, make sure she has some sort of emergency shelter. You can make one out of storage totes. Put one inside another, and fill the space between them with newspaper or blankets.

Wellness Care

Don’t assume that you can stop parasite control when it gets cold. Many parasites would love to winter over in Fluffy’s fur! Vaccinations are also important. At this time of year, many wild animals are preparing to hibernate, and may be more aggressive than usual.

Decorations

Keep Fluffy’s frisky streak in mind when decorating. Some things to keep out of paws’ reach include candles, plastic bags and ties, anything with ropes or cords, small and/or sharp objects, and toxic plants.