We Heart Cats

Spring is quickly approaching (hopefully) with warmer, longer days and milder nights. Chances are if you have spring fever, your cat does to. If you have been an owner for more than a year or two, you have probably noticed that with the first signs of a sunny warm day, just as the birds are returning, your cat is suddenly energized and playful.

Cats that are allowed outdoors will be spending more and more time outside roaming than indoors sleeping. Cats that are kept indoors all the time will be looking for entertainment, too. So, while you are doing your spring cleaning and revamping your wardrobe, don’t forget about kitty. Below are a few things you should remember to get your cat ready for spring.

Make sure all vaccinations including rabies are up to date. The warmer months of spring and summer mean more animals are on the move and more likely to cross another’s path, thus aiding the spread of diseases.

Stock up on flea and tick treatments for your pets and your home. The ASPCA recommends checking your cat for fleas and ticks at least once per week. If your cat has fleas, your home does to, and both should be treated properly with safe flea and tick pesticide products. Preventive treatments do help, but they are not fail-proof.

Make sure your cat has access to plenty of clean water both indoors and outdoors. Cats need a lot of water during hot weather. For outdoors, provide a sturdy, non-tip bowl in a shaded area. If you are away from home for most of the day, or take overnight trips, a self-waterer is the best way to make sure they don’t run out. Wash the bowls and replace with fresh water daily.

Provide entertainment. Especially for indoor cats, the renewed energy and playfullness of spring fever means they are going to be looking for stimulation. If you don’t provide it, they will find it on their own, and likely up the curtains. Purchasing some new toys and scratching posts will help to keep them entertained.

Make sure your cat will have access to a cool surface for sleeping. Tile floors, sinks and bathtubs are favored napping spots during the summer because the surfaces stay cooler. If you normally keep bathrooms and kitchen areas closed off from your cat, make sure there is another cool spot in the rooms they are allowed into. If necessary, go to your local home and hardware store and ask for remnants of kitchen laminate or tile squares. You can place these in a dark corner away from windows and sunlight, and the surface will stay colder than carpet or furniture.

Enjoy your cat’s energetic boost this spring. Spring fever makes for some great funny video and photo opportunities!

Image source: Thanks to Greekgeek for sharing this great picture of Samhain the cat.

cat care, cats and spring, cats and weather