Cats Protection outlines simple steps to keep puss purring throughout the year

Cats Protection has outlined a series of steps which can be taken to
help keep felines safe throughout the year.

Although cats often enjoy exploring, their curiosity can lead them
into trouble. A few simple measures can help keep cats away from
danger and enjoying life.

KEEP CATS INSIDE DURING HOURS OF DARKNESS. Cats are at increased risk
of road injuries and theft after nightfall. Keeping cats indoors
overnight and timing meals to coincide with rush hour will help keep
cats away from busy roads.

ENSURE CATS ARE NEUTERED, VACCINATED AND MICROCHIPPED. Making sure
cats are neutered provides a host of benefits in addition to
preventing unwanted kittens being born. Neutered cats are less likely
to roam, lowering the risk of car accidents and less likely to fight
and contract serious diseases which are spread by saliva.
Microchipping offers a safe and permanent method of identification,
while ensuring cats are vaccinated will protect against parasites and
diseases.

ENCOURAGE CATS TO STAY CLOSE TO HOME. If cats are content, they are
more likely to stay within their own home and garden Planting
cat-friendly plants such as catnip and lavender, providing logs for
scratching and long grass for relaxing or to assist with expelling
hairballs can all add to the creation of a cat-friendly space.
Poisonous substances often found in the home or garden, such as
antifreeze, disinfectants, insect and pest killers should be kept
securely.

Certain plants can be toxic to cats, for example lilies can be lethal
if any part of the plant is ingested. If your cat does show any signs
of poisoning, you should seek veterinary advice as soon as possible. A
full list of plants that are hazardous to cats can be found on
International Cat Care’s website www.icatcare.org [1]

REMAIN VIGILANT TO POSSIBLE ACTS OF CRUELTY. If you suspect somebody
is acting suspiciously towards cats in the area, report your concerns
to the local police and/or RSPCA, along with any descriptions and car
number plates you may have noted. If there is a local Neighbourhood
Watch, make them aware and inform your neighbours that there may be
suspicious activity taking place.

Mark Beazley, Director of Operations for Cats Protection, says: “We
often have reports coming into our branches and centres across the
country of cats that have strayed, become injured in fights or been
poisoned by seemingly harmless substances around the home. Simply
following these guidelines and remaining vigilant can help keep cats
safe and enjoying themselves throughout the year.”

For further advice and information on cat welfare-related issues
please download http://bit.ly/CatSafeAdvice [2] or for more detail
http://bit.ly/CatSafeGuide [3] alternatively call Cats Protection’s
helpline on 03000 12 12 12.