It’s been a cold and snowy winter and temperatures are expected to dip even lower. Even if your cat never leaves the house, it’s a good time to assess winter safety for your cat and other pets in your neighborhood that may wander through your yard. Here are a few tips to consider:

It’s a good time to check for drafts throughout your house, especially in your kitty’s favorite nesting area. Offer a cat bed or basket that will get your cat off the cold floor and consider a pet safe heating pad made for cats. Extra blankets or fluffy towels will also make a nice cozy nesting area for your cat.

If you need to take your cat to the veterinarian, groomer or anyplace else, line the carrier with bedding and drape a towel over the carrier to keep out the draft and keep your cat cozy. Don’t leave your cat in a cold car because it acts like a refrigerator. Cute kitty coats are nice, but many cats will not take too kindly to the added wardrobe.

If your cat is getting proper nutrition and plenty of water, he or she will be better equipped to handle extreme weather.

If you keep your car outside, remember that cats, dogs and other animals may climb under the car – even under the hood – for warmth and to stay dry. Pound on the hood or beep the horn before you start the car to warn any critters that may be hiding in the engine compartment.

Antifreeze, even in small doses, is lethal to animals. Pets are often attracted to antifreeze because of its sweet taste. Make sure your vehicle only utilizes pet-safe fluids (even these are not non-toxic) so be careful. The same holds true for salt and ice melt on your walks and driveways. Look for pet safe products and alternatives that won’t cause a problem with other pets in the neighborhood.

If you do have an indoor/outdoor cat, limit the outdoor time during very cold or snowy weather. It it’s too cold for you, it’s also too cold for your cat to be outside. Keep an eye out for signs of frostbite or hypothermia and get treatment immediately.

Just like people, cats may get frostbite and hypothermia which requires immediate veterinary treatment. Some signs to watch for include: an extreme drop in body temperature, violent shivering followed by listlessness, weak pulse, lethargy, muscle stiffness, problems breathing, lack of appetite and other symptoms.

If you notice these signs, call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian immediately and follow their instructions.