Cat owners can keep their pets safe on the street with these measures.
Most people have the impression that cats need minimal maintenance. They are independent creatures, self-sufficient in their way of life. However, all cats need care and attention; without it, the consequences could be fatal. In particular, one should be careful in keeping cats safe on the road.
Do Cats Have Road Sense?
If a cat dies unexpectedly, there is a high chance that it was because of trauma, and most of the time, the source of the trauma is a motor vehicle. Cat owners have picked up that their pets have little to no road sense naturally, but how much sense they can have depends on various factors like exposure to busy streets, age, and disposition. No one has found a foolproof way to train a cat to look both ways before crossing the street, but there are several ways to keep your cat safe on the road.
Neutering
Male, unneutered cats are more likely to get run over than neutered ones. They will become less territorial and not demand so large a territory. They may still roam farther than a female cat might, but at least their instincts will keep them closer to home. Male cats usually need neutering at around six months old.
Reflective Collar
Another way to ensure road safety for your wandering feline is to give it a reflective collar. Sometimes, a cat can dart in front of cars, and to the driver, it may seem like it is coming from nowhere. A reflective collar can make the cat more visible at darker hours.
Restricted Hours
The risk of hitting a cat on the road is higher between dusk and dawn, nevertheless. For this reason, some cat owners keep their cats indoors at night and outdoors during the day. Be careful during very hot or very cold days, however, to check that the cat is not sheltering in the car hood, under the car, or above the tires before starting the engine.
Outdoor Enclosure
Another way to keep your cat safe on the road is by giving it the best of both worlds with a catio. A catio can be as simple or high-end as you prefer; it can be a temporary structure or your converted screened-in porch.
Harness
Did you know you can take your cat for a walk too? Indoor cats especially can benefit from the outdoor exercise and mental stimulation. From a young age, they can be trained to accept a harness and go on walks this way. If you trust your cat enough, you can also let it tag along with you and your dog.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With two Maryland locations in both Baltimore and Pasadena, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131 or 410-793-7670! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!