This Video Proves Frigid Temperatures Are Hell for ‘Outdoor Cats’
Last week, a couple in Russia posted a video showing the moment that they found and rescued a cat. But it’s not your average rescue, as the animal had been outside in frigid temperatures overnight. Allegedly, the long-haired cat sought shelter from the harsh elements under a parked car, but by morning, he was frozen to the ground. The video shows his rescue, as the couple carefully uses hot water to thaw the ice frozen to the cat’s fur in -31°F.
The video’s title translates to “We Saved a Kitten.”
It’s not uncommon for cats and dogs to be left to fend for themselves in the U.S. Many “backyard dogs” and “outdoor cats” face extreme weather during the winter months. Animals left outside during the freezing cold suffer from potentially deadly hypothermia and dehydration when water sources freeze. In recent years, PETA has documented cats who have lost their ears to frostbite and dogs with drool frozen to their mouths—as well as many animal deaths.
What You Can Do
Always keep your animal companions indoors, especially during harsh weather. In addition to suffering from the elements, “outdoor cats” are also vulnerable to contagious diseases, parasite infestations, starvation, attacks by dogs and other predators, injuries from being struck by vehicles, and cruel people.
You can give your cats the best life possible by keeping them happy and stimulated indoors.
