Vet's warning to cat owners over hidden winter dangers

Despite their furry coats, cats are vulnerable to a range of seasonal hazards during the colder months that many owners may not be aware of.

According to recent research from Nottingham Trent University, nearly 50% of cats are now kept indoors, with owners being concerned about traffic, people and wildlife. 

Jimmy Bratley, veterinary advisor for Feliway, warns that both indoor and outdoor cats face common winter risks requiring attention from pet owners.

Winter dangers for cats

Car bonnets

Cats will frequently take advantage of the warmth coming from a car engine by lying on the bonnet, or even curl up behind warm, recently driven tyres. Before getting into your car and driving off, always check for dozing kitties.

Antifreeze 

We use antifreeze (ethylene glycol) in car radiators and screen wash in the winter. Unfortunately, cats love the taste of antifreeze, but this can be fatal to them if ingested. It is also often used in garden ponds and water features to stop them from freezing over.

Clean up any spills straight away and get in touch with your vet if you think your cat may have ingested or been exposed to any antifreeze, as it can quickly damage their kidneys (signs include vomiting, lethargy and seeming uncoordinated).

Road salt and grit

Road salt and grit can be harmful if ingested by cats when they groom themselves after walking on treated surfaces. Wiping paws clean after outdoor excursions helps prevent poisoning.

Visibility

During the winter, visibility is seriously reduced. While cats can see in light levels six times lower than humans require, their dilated pupils create blurred vision in darkness. Sudden exposure to car headlights can be dazzling and disorienting, significantly increasing the risk of road accidents during winter's longer nights.

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Winter dangers for indoor cats

But it is not just those cats who venture outdoors at risk in the colder months.

Indoor cats are not immune to winter hazards, and reduced outdoor time can create its own set of challenges:

• Dangerous hiding spots: Cats climb into washing machines and dryers seeking warmth—check appliances before every use. Secure garages containing antifreeze. Check cabinets and drawers before closing to prevent cats from becoming trapped.
• Boredom problems: Reduced outdoor time causes over-grooming, aggression toward other pets, depression, and overeating. Combat this with interactive toys and regular play sessions.
• Toxic plants: Cycads, cheese plants, aloe vera, mistletoe, and poinsettia are poisonous to cats. Cats Protection UK provides a full list of toxic and safe plants.

How to keep cats safe this winter

Mr Bratley recommends cat owners take the following precautions to keep their feline friends safe this winter:

• Bring outdoor cats inside earlier during winter months, ideally before rush hour
• Clean up antifreeze spills immediately and store safely
• Check washing machines and dryers before starting cycles
• Wipe cats' paws after outdoor excursions
• Provide indoor litter trays even for outdoor cats
• Keep heating on when away from home
• Use fire guards around open flames and wood burners
• Ensure microchip details are current in case cats wander, seeking warmth
• Monitor cat flaps for snow blockages or ice
• Stock up on food and supplies in case of severe weather

With winter's arrival, these simple precautions could mean the difference between a safe, cosy season and a veterinary emergency.