Veterinarian explains: Diseases cats are prone to in winter and how to prevent them

This year, the hot summer has lasted quite a long time, and there are still days in November when it feels warm. However, there are also days with drastic temperature changes, which can make both people and cats more susceptible to illness.

This time, we will explain in detail the diseases that cats are prone to in winter.

What kinds of diseases are cats prone to in winter?

Respiratory infections such as cat flu

Just as respiratory infections increase in humans during winter, cats also tend to experience an increase in respiratory infections.

This is commonly referred to as "cat flu," but it specifically refers to respiratory infections caused by "feline infectious rhinotracheitis," "feline calicivirus infection," and "chlamydial infection." Cat flu is caused by pathogens such as herpesvirus, calicivirus, and chlamydia, and infection occurs if the pathogens remain in the body for a long time or if the immune system is weak. In winter, immunity is weakened due to the cold, and the dry air makes it easier for pathogens to invade the body. Therefore, winter can be considered a season when cats are more susceptible to cat flu.

Risk of hypothermia and frostbite

Due to global warming, winters may not be as cold as they used to be, but hypothermia can still occur if there is no heating. Kittens, elderly cats, and cats with pre-existing conditions, in particular, who have difficulty regulating their body temperature, need to be careful. Also, for outdoor cats, their body temperature can drop due to the cold at night.

Metals can get very cold in winter. Also, in snowy areas, temperatures can drop below freezing, leading to frostbite. Although cats are covered in fur, their paw pads and ears, which have less blood flow, can be susceptible to frostbite.

Worsening of arthritis and the effects of cold

Just as some people experience joint pain in colder weather, cats with arthritis tend to suffer during cold periods. When it gets cold, muscles and joints stiffen, and blood flow decreases. Also, cats tend to be less active in winter due to the cold. Furthermore, they try to store nutrients for winter, leading to increased appetite and weight gain. As a result, cats with arthritis may experience increased strain on their joints, leading to more severe pain.

Why are cats more susceptible to illness in winter? The relationship between cats' bodies and winter

The relationship between weakened immunity and cold

Just like humans, cats' body temperatures tend to drop when it gets cold, and this stress can reduce the activity of immune cells. As a result, they may succumb to pathogens that they would normally be able to fight off. Also, because winter tends to be dry, the mucous membranes of the nose and bronchi also dry out, making it easier for pathogens to invade the body, which is another reason why cats are more prone to colds in winter.

Poor circulation due to cold and its effects

Both humans and cats are homeothermic animals, meaning our body temperatures are regulated to remain constant. When it gets cold, blood vessels close to the surface of the skin and muscles constrict to prevent the body from losing heat. This can lead to poor circulation in areas like the ears and paw pads, and in extremely cold environments, frostbite can occur. Additionally, blood flow to muscles can also decrease, leading to reduced muscle and joint movement. Cats with arthritis may experience increased pain.

Urinary tract diseases common in winter

Winter is the season when urinary tract diseases increase in cats. Cats tend not to drink much water in winter, leading to reduced water intake. They also tend to avoid going to the litter box. In winter, cats tend to be less active and consume more calories, making them prone to obesity. This can lead to urinary stones and cystitis. The cold weather in winter can also cause stress, making the bladder more susceptible to inflammation. If a cat has experienced cystitis or urolithiasis even once, there is a high chance of recurrence.

Chronic kidney disease can also worsen in winter. Urinary tract diseases often require urgent attention, so if you notice anything unusual, take your cat to the vet as soon as possible.

Tips for preventing winter illnesses at home

Providing warm bedding and blankets

While you might imagine cats sleeping in warm futons, they actually prefer soft, fluffy places to sleep. They will find their own sleeping spots, so they might not sleep exactly where you want them to. However, they tend to prefer soft bedding, so it's a good idea to provide cat futons or blankets for them in winter. Many cats don't burrow into blankets, so if your cat doesn't, there's no need to force it. If your cat seems particularly cold, you can warm them up by turning on the heater.

Cats love their owner's scent, so even if it's not a blanket, they'll be happy with your old clothes.

Balanced diet and hydration

In winter, a cat's body accumulates fat to survive the cold. A significant amount of calories is needed to get through winter. Conversely, if they don't get enough calories, they will lose weight and their health will deteriorate. If they consume too many calories, they will become overweight, and obesity can also cause illness. Be sure to feed your cat a complete and balanced diet, and avoid overfeeding or drastically underfeeding. The amount of food for a cat is calculated based on its body shape. First, use the feeding guidelines on the food as a reference, and adjust if there are changes in body shape. You can also consult with a veterinarian about food portions.

Hydration in winter is also important. As winter is dry, water escapes from the body. Therefore, it is necessary to rehydrate frequently. However, cats tend to drink less water when it is cold, so their water intake decreases in winter. Reduced water intake can lead to various urinary tract diseases. Avoid placing water bowls near windows or other cold spots, and set up multiple drinking stations. You might also consider changing the water bowls to ceramic or glass. If your cat still doesn't drink, try using an oral rehydration solution for cats or mixing wet food soup into their drinking water. Simply switching from dry food to wet food can also increase water intake.

Comfortable room temperature for cats

The comfortable room temperature for cats in winter is around 20-23℃. It is thought that a temperature difference of less than 5℃ makes it less likely for them to get sick. On cold days, it's a good idea to turn on the heating, but be careful not to set the temperature too high. If you have underfloor heating, the area where your cat is might get too hot. Make sure there is also a place where your cat can escape the heat.

Not only temperature but also humidity is important for cats. Winter tends to be dry, so set up a humidifier to maintain humidity between 40-60%.

Health check items for cats to stay healthy in winter

Early detection of abnormalities through daily behavioral observation

Common cat diseases in winter include respiratory, urinary, and joint diseases. Respiratory diseases, with symptoms like coughing and sneezing, can be detected early. Urinary tract diseases can be caught before they become serious if you monitor your cat's daily toilet frequency and amount. However, if you have multiple cats or if your cat goes outside to relieve itself, you might not notice urinary problems until they become severe. It is important to keep track of your cat's normal toilet habits. You might also consider using a device that records your cat's urination frequency.

With joint diseases, cats may become less active than usual, but this can sometimes be mistaken for just being less active because it's winter. Observe if their walking style is different when they go to eat. Also, if there are any areas they dislike being touched, it might be due to arthritis, which is why they are not moving much.

Early detection of illness through regular health checkups

Health checkups lead to early detection of diseases. Regular health checkups allow you to know your pet's normal state, and if there are any abnormalities, treatment can be given before they worsen. If your pet has a disease that tends to worsen in winter, you can prepare for it. Get a diagnosis before it gets worse and prepare for winter.

Veterinarian's recommendations for winter health management and precautions

Early consultation if illness is suspected

Some people may refrain from going out in winter. In fact, the rate of veterinary visits tends to decrease in winter. As a result, many pet owners wait until the condition worsens before seeking help. It is common for pet owners to visit the vet when the condition is already beyond help. If you suspect anything unusual, try to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Also, most veterinary clinics are closed for the New Year holidays in winter. It is also necessary to secure a hospital that offers night or holiday consultations.

Joint care and creating a comfortable indoor environment

Cats with arthritis may experience increased pain in winter. Therefore, create an environment that is gentle on their joints. For slippery flooring, use mats or carpets to prevent slipping, and install ramps for steps to reduce strain on their joints.

If a cat has joint pain, they may become inactive due to the pain, leading to weight gain and further worsening of arthritis. Consult a veterinarian for pain relievers or supplements to help relieve their pain.

Summary

Winter is a time when respiratory infections, urinary tract diseases, and arthritis are more likely to occur and worsen. To ensure your cat stays healthy through winter, maintain their health with regular check-ups.

For cats that already have an illness, their condition can change rapidly, so try to provide them with a stress-free environment.