Today’s headlines carry all-too-frequent information about the disturbing acts of cruelty being performed against cats. Cats are, unfortunately, poisoned, injured, and even killed by people. If you have a cat, you can’t help but wonder how you would cope if your cat ever befell victim to one of these crimes.
With cat cruelty rampant in today’s society, there are some ways that you can help to keep your cat safe.
Keep Your Cat Indoors
One of the best ways to prevent cruelty against your cat is to keep your cat indoors. When your cat is outside, he is vulnerable to whomever should come along. If your cat is an indoors cat, he will immediately be safer from human predators.
If your cat has been an outdoor cat for years and you can’t imagine changing his life so dramatically, then see if you can encourage him to stay inside overnight and to only go outside once it’s light out. Many cat crimes occur when it’s dark out and night serves to conceal the offender. Keep your yard well-lit and start feeding your cat around 6:00 or so at night to encourage him to return home.
Feed Your Cat Inside
Sometimes people attempt to harm cats by poisoning their food. Always feed your cat inside to help reduce the risk of him being poisoned.
Keep An Eye Out
Be aware of your surroundings, and keep an eye out for people who are often spending time by your property. If you notice suspicious people, try to keep your cat inside and consider calling the police.
Watch for Signs of Poisoning
If you ever suspect that your cat has been poisoned, take him to the vet immediately. If you have a sample of what your cat has been eating, bring that with you. Symptoms of poisoning may include lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite.
Stay Informed
Keep an eye on your local media sources for stories of cat cruelty in your area. If there are frequent acts of cruelty being committed against cats, ask your local police department about what safety procedures they would advise.
With a little extra effort, you can help to keep your cat safe.
