Hello, and a happy 2025 to you! As pet business owners the new year can be a really positive time, but that seasonal lull after the Christmas rush can also be a challenge too. I’m here to tell you that it’s all going to be just fine, and 2025 is going to be a smasher! By Katie Gwilt – The Kay Lady
In Liverpool, we have had the snow, so getting out and about to grooming sessions has been a challenge for apprentice Chloe and me, but we have wrapped up warm, de-iced the cat mobile, and done it anyway. Nothing like a bit of freezing cold resilience to start off the year!
I’ve also had some devastating news in January, which derailed my last week entirely. After a week of nursing my soul cat Eris after her health rapidly deteriorated I said goodbye to her..
As well as being blind, deaf, hyperthyroid, high blood pressure, kidney disease, and suffering with two heart murmurs and low potassium the vet found a large mass in her abdomen which was the final straw for her.
I had to make the right decision for her rather than me and she passed in my arms against my heart and with me telling her how much I love her.
I have loved many cats and have three more with me, but there was always something special about Eris and the bond we shared.
She was my shadow and my life feels so empty without her. She slept on my pillow every night for over 15 years and was never far from my side. This column is in tribute to her.
So this month for my tips I’m going to have a winter theme.
Cats are commonly seen as very self-sufficient, and many enjoy going out and roaming their territory of gardens close to where you live.
The recent cold snap has reminded me how important it is to make sure that our cats have some cosy warm spots to curl up in.
“This is especially important for older cats (any over 10 counts as a senior) and any with health conditions where warmth can help those sore joints and boost their immune system.
Heat Pads
These are so good for our cats (as well as us humans). There are so many varieties to choose from now as well.
I have a couple of electric heat pads that I keep on a low setting for my cats. There are also electric blankets that cover a much bigger area that you can leave on low.
For those not comfortable leaving something plugged in when you are out, there are lots of microwave options too. There is the classic hot water bottle as well as wheat packs.
I use something called the All Nighter that retains heat for around 8-10 hours and comes with a cover. Make sure you put a blanket or cover over anything just to protect your cat’s thin skin and let your cat decide when they want a break by being able to move away from it as needed.
Outdoor Shelters
A lot of cats still enjoy being able to go outside despite the drop in temperature.
You may also have local strays and feral cats you help look after. Outdoor shelters are commonplace now and again there are lots of types to choose from.
There are wooden and plastic ones or you can fashion something homemade.
Remember not to put blankets in outdoor housing for animals as they can freeze when they get damp. Straw (not hay) makes for excellent padding and insulation and can be used to help retain heat for any outdoor cats.
Radiator Beds
These are a lovely addition if your cats love to curl up near radiators.
Mine love to sleep on the windowsill above mine as I can’t fit a bed. If you have the space though do give these a try. Check the top of your radiator as there are different options for those with one or two rungs along the top.
If your cat prefers floor level then you can try a clothing rail with a blanket draped over it the cat can sit on or underneath if they prefer cover.
Enclosed Beds
Any bed that the cat has the option to climb into (health permitting) is a great way to help them stay warm. That way they have warmth on three sides plus above and below.
Igloo type beds are a great choice or even a blanket or cloth draped over a table your cat can snooze underneath (how many people’s cats love sleeping on a chair pushed under a table!).
You can even make your own cat bed from a cardboard box and an old t-shirt. The possibilities are endless if you use your imagination.
It is important to give your cat options and let them regulate their temperature themselves so make sure they can move away from any heat source as needed.
To find out more about Katie Gwilt go to www.thekatlady.co.uk
