Seasonal Cat Care: Prevention & Tips for a Healthy Tran
Seasonal transitions are a peak time for pets to fall ill with conditions like colds, coughs, and enteritis, especially for kittens and puppies. It's crucial to be particularly vigilant during these periods.
For instance, our two adult cats, Sixteen and Caramel, surprisingly started coughing one after the other. Normally, our feline companions navigate these changes without a hitch, without ever showing signs of coughs or similar issues. This year, however, it caught me off guard. After a close observation, I noticed that they were only exhibiting coughs, occurring about three to four times a day. There were no runny noses, no tears, no diarrhea, and no loss of appetite or energy. This allowed me to breathe a little easier.
Given that we have multiple cats at home, I decided to isolate Sixteen and Caramel to prevent the spread of any potential infection. I even brought out the cage that had been gathering dust for a while. Thankfully, after about three to four days of continuous medication, their coughing gradually subsided until they were completely recovered.
During this time, I made sure to sanitize the cage they were in and our entire home regularly. Besides occasionally opening the balcony door for crossventilation, the windows and doors were mostly kept shut.
With the wind outside feeling rather chilly, it's important to protect our feline friends from prolonged exposure to the cold breeze. During the change of seasons, their immune systems can weaken, making them more susceptible to illnesses. We must pay close attention to their wellbeing, and if you live in an area prone to fall rains and humidity, be on the lookout for skin conditions!
So, how can we prepare for the change of seasons for our furry companions?
1. Keep Them Warm
Layer their beds and favorite resting spots with a cozy blanket to prevent them from sleeping on cold floors.
2. Ensure Adequate Hydration
Cold weather can lead to decreased water intake in some cats. Offer them warm water or mix it with canned food to boost their hydration levels.
3. Monitor Their Health
Keep an eye out for signs of coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, vomiting, or diarrhea at home. If your cat suddenly loses interest in eating or seems listless and cannot manage the situation on their own, it's best to seek veterinary care promptly.
4. Keep益生菌 on Hand
Some cats may have sensitive stomachs during the change of seasons. Feeding them probiotics can help prevent gastrointestinal discomfort. I always have Saccharomyces boulardii on hand—it's a yearround essential that works well for diarrhea and loose stools, and it's great for gut health.
