Frostbitten Kitten at PAWS Reminds Owners to Keep Pets Warm

In extreme cold weather, cats and dogs can easily succumb to frostbite and hypothermia

As another Wind Chill Warning heads our way, one stray cat serves as a reminder to pet owners of the dangers of frostbite.

Sunny, who is one years old, was rescued Monday by PAWS animal shelter, but not before her ears suffered from frostbite after being out in the cold weather this week. She also showed up with badly matted fur and was severely underweight at only 2.5 pounds.

"We, unfortunately, see that quite often during these months," Sarah Ahlberg, a PAWS spokesperson, said.

Sunny is now recovering at the PAWS facility in the Pilsen neighborhood. She's a bit under the weather now, but the staff believes she could be available for adoption in just a few weeks.

"We're trying to figure out why she's so underweight at one year old, so we're going to run some blood work on her. But she's doing splendidly," Ahlberg said.

Stray animals or pets that have escaped outside can suffer life-threatening hypothermia in addition to frostbite when the weather is this cold. Pets with short fur are especially vulnerable.

Symptoms of hypothermia in a pet include violent shivering, problems breathing, a weak pulse, lethargy, muscle stiffness and lack of appetite. Symptoms of frostbite include red- or gray-tinged skin on the tips of the ears and tail; pain in ears, tail or paws when touched, skin that stays cold and shriveled skin.

If you notice your dog or cat is showing symtoms of hypothermia or frostbite, you should call a veterinarian right away. In the meantime, you can wrap them in a warm blanket or gradually warm them by gently covering affected areas with water that is warm, but not hot.

PAWS is also warning pet owners to clean their pets' paws after taking them outside because the salt can harm the pads on their paws or their mouths if they lick their paws.

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