Whether it's extreme weather or something else, sometimes our independent kitties need some help.
We won't always know when this can happen, but we can stay prepared. A good way to do this is by packing a first-aid kit.
Below, we provide a cat first aid kit list, what to pack in your pet first aid kit, and how you and your cat can prepare for the unexpected.
Why pack a cat first aid kit?
Cats can look after themselves, and a lot of them seem to carry a sense of pride for how independent they are. But sometimes disaster can strike, which is where a cat first aid kit can help.
Storms, wildfires, and heatwaves have grown increasingly common. So, you'll never regret making an emergency plan and, hopefully, you'll never have to test it out.
Plus, if you have an outdoor cat, they'll come across risks every day. Having an all-in-one first aid kit can help in the short term if anything happens.
Cat first aid kit contents
Generally, you'll want a cat first-aid kit that has:
Adhesive tape and gauze
Alcohol swabs and wipes
Antibiotics
Bandages
Clean towels
Cotton balls and swabs
Digital thermometer
Extra bowls
Extra collar and leash/harness
First-aid book
Latex-free gloves
Pet-safe soap
Preventatives, like heartworm treatment and flea and tick medicine
Scissors
Something that smells like home (blanket, toy, bed)
Spare nail clippers
Your cat's medication (if necessary)
We recommend keeping these supplies in an easy-to-reach place.
What else should I stock up on?
We also recommend stocking up on:
Cat food
Treats
Water
This makes sure if you're cut off or something happens, your cat has what they need. Of course, this only really applies if you live in a rural area, but it's worth being prepared anyway!
Pet emergency documentation
We recommend having emergency documentation on hand just in case your cat gets lost. You should have these on hand:
Contact details and emergency phone numbers
Photo of you and your pet
Proof of ownership
Medical and vaccination records
Service animal documentation, if applicable
You and your vet's information
Try to keep these in a waterproof folder or pocket. You don't want this to get destroyed in a flood or a leak!
Pet preparedness tips
Other than packing supplies, make sure you have enough for other pets in your home too. For example, cats and dogs are different, so you should know about dog first aid if you own one.
Education is key, too. You should know about risks and how to prepare for them, from wildfires to parasite attacks. Yes, even bee or wasp stings and cuts and scrapes. Staying on top of the latest advice can, at times, be more important than packing a simple first-aid kit.
Oh, and be sure to check the expiration dates for any medication and food you have.
Our article on first aid for cats can help.
How cat insurance helps
Cat insurance can help you prepare for the unexpected.
More so than having the right equipment at home, insurance can help you offset financial issues and get your cat the treatment they need.