While many cats will be enjoying the warm weather this summer, owners are being advised to keep their cats safe from potential garden hazards.
Cats Protection’s Gloucester and Cirencester branch has compiled an actual list of tips to keep cats safe this summer.
Lilies, barbecues, and too much sun exposure may prove harmful to felines.
Miranda Smith, who is branch co-ordinator at Cat Protection, stated: “Many people are aware of the risks connected with sunbathing in humans but do not realize that cats can be affected as well.
“Whilst the sun can be very damaging, there are also lots of other potential dangers to felines during the summer months so we would advise owners to be aware of these hazards.”
Here are the top tips to keep cats safe this summer are:
1. You should protect your cat from the sun – Like us humans, cats can easily develop skin cancer from too much sun exposure and certain cats, particularly white and pale cats or those with sparse hair on their ears, are more at risk.
2. A high factor sunblock may be obtained, and can be applied to vulnerable areas such as the ears, but owners should be aware that most cats will clean this off, so speak to your vet for advice on an appropriate sunblock.
3. It is always best to keep your cat indoors or in the shade between 11am and 4pm when the sun is at its hottest. Most cats sleep, nap, or rest around this time, so provide a quiet spot and a litter tray and your cat is likely to stay indoors.
4. Be careful with barbecues – If you are planning to enjoy some al fresco dining throughout the summer, make sure barbecue coals are properly cooled with water as your cat can suffer nasty burns if he or she jumps onto them once you are finished.
5. Always keep the doors of sheds and greenhouses shut – Be careful not to accidentally trap cats inside outbuildings during hot weather.
6. Read the label on pest control products carefully – Slug pellets which contain metaldehyde may prove fatal to cats, so make sure any pest control products are safe for felines.
7. You should check your plants and flowers are feline friendly – Certain plants and flowers can be toxic to cats, particularly lilies.
8. Avoid buying any and all lilies, both for outdoor and indoor arrangements, and if you think your cat has eaten or come into contact with any part of a lily, get them to a vet immediately.
For a good list of potentially dangerous plants, visit the Feline Advisory Bureau website on http://www.fabcats.org
You should ensure your cat has appropriate flea treatment – Fleas thrive in hot weather, so make absolutely certain your cat is protected against them. Your vet will be able to advise on what treatment is most suitable for your pet.
We hope these tips come in handy!
