Get a Handle on Disaster Preparedness for Cats
There’s a certain power in being prepared. Knowing exactly what to do when an occasion arises gives us the confidence to get through a frightening or stressful situation. But the sudden force and unpredictable course of natural disasters can relegate any plans made in advance to the back burner. Our fear goes into overdrive and panic sets in.
If cats are a part of your family, they are utterly dependent on you to know what to do in the event of an emergency. Disaster preparedness for cats is pretty straightforward, but several items require immediate understanding and quick action.
Laying the Groundwork
Natural disasters are unquestionably terrifying, but the fact that they can occur with little or no warning makes living through one incredibly difficult. As such, disaster planning for families with cats is a huge priority.
First Things, First
One of the most important things a cat owner can do is microchip their cat. If you are ever separated, their chip could be the only way toward a happy reunion. Additionally, a collar and a clear identification tag can make all the difference to disaster preparedness for cats.
The Basics
Much has been said about the benefits of an indoor-only lifestyle. Not only are indoor cats safer, but their chances of contracting a disease while outside is limited.
Indoor-only cats still need year-round parasite prevention and up-to-date vaccinations. In the event of a natural disaster, your cat’s defenses against parasites and contagious diseases (including Rabies) are upheld.
The Crate Is Great
Another reason to keep your cat safely confined within the home has to do with your ability to locate an indoor-outdoor cat before or during a natural disaster. Cats will instinctively hide or run away from a perceived threat, reducing the likelihood of safe retrieval.
Crate training your cat offers a perfect solution to safe, effective evacuation, but can also help your cat calm down during times of stress and upheaval.
Once your cat is located and contained inside their crate, you can follow your disaster plan to either stay in the home or leave together. It is never a good idea to leave your cat alone inside the home during a natural disaster. Always take them with you.
Next Steps
If you ever have to stay at an emergency shelter, it’s essential to have a plan in place for your cat. Emergency shelters are usually pet-free, so have a few alternatives in mind where your cat can safely stay. Research a few pet-friendly hotels within a day’s drive so you can leave the area safely and stay together throughout the ordeal.
A key to natural preparedness for cats involves affixing a rescue sticker on your home’s front window to alert emergency personnel in case you are injured or not at home to evacuate them.
Disaster Preparedness for Cats
It is recommended that cat owners stock up on supplies for a cat first-aid kit. Know how to handle certain ailments or injuries, and always call us with questions or concerns.
Additionally, having an emergency inventory of food, litter, toys, treats, water and medication is essential for your ability to protect your cat’s health.
Feel free to contact us at (404) 792-0700. Our staff at Cat Care of Vinings is always available to support your cat’s safety and well-being.
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At Cat Care of Vinings, every person…demonstrated care. Everything was well explained… I received phone calls updating me on his progress and asking how he was after I took him home. They are compassionate and knowledgeable about cats and that is what really matters.
…more information than the previous…places… Also,…we did not feel like they were pressuring us into paying for expensive procedures that may or may not work… [They] actually showed care and concern for our kitty…
CCV is a warm, quiet environment that helps my nervous cat feel more comfortable… The vet techs and office staff are skilled, helpful and friendly. A+
I have had cats my whole life and have used many veterinarians over the years. Cat Care of Vinings provides the best care I have ever received for my 'kids' - cats
…We must say that Dr. Jennifer Palmer…is the BEST. Her medical experience, bedside manner, candor, and quest for knowledge…is immeasurable. She goes beyond the call of duty to ‘reach-out’ for answers and health options you may not be aware of.
Dr. Michael Friedlander is experienced, capable, kind, and caring with my cat and with me. Her staff is also excellent. Besides the excellent care for my cat, Michael also educated me on what I need to do to take care of my cat, such as vaccinations and heart worm prevention. This is a top notch feline veterinary hospital with a top notch staff!
The Vets have taken time to know and understand both my kitties. All clinic staff are caring, knowledgeable, and generally first rate.
Knowledgeable, caring vets and a very supportive team. Highly recommended based on my personal experiences…
I am extremely fortunate to have taken her to Cat Care of Vinings… They take time to listen…answer questions, offer guidance…compassion, and give frequent and welcome updates.
I was shocked at how little we knew even after more than a decade of cat ownership and regular vet visits. I really can't say enough about how thrilled we are with Dr. Palmer and Cat Care of Vinings. We just feel so fortunate to have you in our lives and are most grateful. Thank you all for all that you do! :-)
These people love your pet almost as much as you do… This seems less like a business and more like a labor of love. [They]…always keep you in the loop of what is happening…and put both you and your pet at ease…providing first rate care for you cat.
Where do I begin? There are so many positives about Cat Care of Vinings…this entire practice is on a whole other level… The environment is relaxing and the staff are comforting and supportive.
The veterinarians and staff here are very professional, caring and thorough (they check for things other vet clinics don’t). They genuinely love their clients (i.e. cats)…
This veterinary clinic changed my cat's entire life…[he had] severe dental problems… I was reluctant to…do the procedures… I cannot stress how happy I am… Everyone treats the cats with love and care, and they treat the people with respect and offer great advice.
Cat Care is exactly what it says. The whole office is geared toward all felines… There are cat trees, and cat friendly furniture throughout. But is what is more important is the feline expertise…
The quality of treatment and unbelievable care with which my kitten was treated are priceless to me especially as kitten moves into her later years. I wouldn’t take her anywhere else.
The staff are always welcoming and hospitable. Doctors will go out of their way to make sure your cat is taken care of and comfortable. They always return your calls and even call to check up on your cat after an appointment.