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Press Release 2
Wednesday 13 December 2006
How to keep your feline in perfect shape this Christmas
Christmas is fast approaching and many of us are preparing to eat, drink and be merry! However, Cats Protection’s Milton Keynes & District branch advises owners to think twice before they offer their pet cat a tasty titbit from the dining-room table!
“Over-feeding will cause a cat to become overweight, placing a strain on his joints and risking health problems such as diabetes,” explained Karen Robinson, Branch Co-ordinator/Homing & Welfare Officer. “We would advise that your cat continues to follow a balanced diet throughout the festive period, for the benefit of his long-term health.”
If you are thinking of offering your cat a treat:
Avoid treats like human chocolate, which are not good for cats, or pieces of turkey which may contain small bones and cause choking
Instead, offer them a little boiled fish or boneless chicken in its own juice (ensure it is adequately cooked to avoid the risk of salmonella poisoning). Alternatively you can give them one of the many safe-to-eat Christmas cat treats that are available
Some cats will also nibble at the seasonal items that appear in their home over the festive period so do remember:
Holly and mistletoe are potentially toxic to cats so, if choosing to have them in your house, position them well away from your cat’s reach. Also if you receive any plants as Christmas presents, consult your vet to check they are safe for felines
Watch your cat to see how he reacts to decorations such as baubles, tinsel or Christmas light cables. If he can’t keep his paws off them then it is best to keep him out of the room when you are not with him
After opening those presents, be sure to completely clear the room of wrapping paper, ribbons, elastic bands and so on
For further advice on healthy eating for cats, and general information on cat care, please call Cats Protection’s Karen Robinson on 01296 738558.
~ends~
Notes to editors:
1. Please contact Sarah Smith, publicity@mkcats.org.uk for more information or to arrange an interview.
2. Cats Protection’s Milton Keynes & District Branch is part of the charity’s nationwide network of 29 Adoption Centres and 261 voluntary-run Branches that together find loving homes for around 60,000 cats every year. The Milton Keynes & District Branch currently has several cats and kittens in its care awaiting a second chance in life. For more information on giving a rescue cat a home, please contact the branch on local rate: 01296 738558.
3. More information about the work of the Milton Keynes & District Branch can be found at www.mkcats.org.uk.
