How to Diagnose and Treat Frostbite in Cats
Notice if your cat is cold and shivering., Look for symptoms on your cat’s extremities., Watch for skin discoloration.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Step 1: Notice if your cat is cold and shivering.
If your cat is playing outside and starts whining, shivering or behaving anxiously, it is a sign of hypothermia and possible frostbite.
Hypothermia often occurs alongside frostbite and is a life threatening condition, so you should familiarize yourself with the symptoms of hypothermia.
If you notice any shivering or discomfort, move your cat to a warm, indoor environment. -
Step 2: Look for symptoms on your cat’s extremities.
Once your cat has been taken to a warm environment, you may notice symptoms of frostbite on their nose, tail, paws, scrotum or other sensitive areas with less fur.
Symptoms may take a few days to appear, so keep an eye on your cat for at least a week after the prolonged exposure to cold or wind.
Look for the following symptoms:
Pain and swelling Discoloration of the skin Blisters on the feet Peeling of your cat’s skin Skin ulcers Brittle skin, when touched Pain when your cat is touched Swelling Black or deadened skin , Once your cat has warmed up, the blood flow should start to return to your cat’s extremities, resulting in red skin.
If the skin turns gray, blue or black instead of red, it is a sign of more severe frostbite.
In this case, your veterinarian may have to remove the impacted tissue. -
Step 3: Watch for skin discoloration.
Detailed Guide
If your cat is playing outside and starts whining, shivering or behaving anxiously, it is a sign of hypothermia and possible frostbite.
Hypothermia often occurs alongside frostbite and is a life threatening condition, so you should familiarize yourself with the symptoms of hypothermia.
If you notice any shivering or discomfort, move your cat to a warm, indoor environment.
Once your cat has been taken to a warm environment, you may notice symptoms of frostbite on their nose, tail, paws, scrotum or other sensitive areas with less fur.
Symptoms may take a few days to appear, so keep an eye on your cat for at least a week after the prolonged exposure to cold or wind.
Look for the following symptoms:
Pain and swelling Discoloration of the skin Blisters on the feet Peeling of your cat’s skin Skin ulcers Brittle skin, when touched Pain when your cat is touched Swelling Black or deadened skin , Once your cat has warmed up, the blood flow should start to return to your cat’s extremities, resulting in red skin.
If the skin turns gray, blue or black instead of red, it is a sign of more severe frostbite.
In this case, your veterinarian may have to remove the impacted tissue.
About the Author
Doris Richardson
Writer and educator with a focus on practical lifestyle knowledge.
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