When winter weather hits and the temperature plummets, cats tend to find refuge in the warm engine bays of various automobiles. Last week, a Pennsylvania stray found themselves in just such a situation — and got trapped inside of the car’s engine bay.
We’ve touched on other rescue stories along these lines, but when another comes along, it’s a great reminder to check those car engines in winter before you drive off.
That’s especially true if you live in an area where stray cats frequently live. The warmth of a car provides a hiding space and shelter for these animals, so always bang the hood of your car to warn any cats taking shelter in the vehicle.
Pennsylvania Cat Rescued By Automotive Shop Employee
When a car owner in Pennsylvania noticed a feline stowaway in their engine bay, they called the Ingram Borough Police (IBPD) to free the cat. When the police arrived on the scene, they called upon a local automotive shop employee for assistance.
After John from Ryan Automotive successfully pried the cat free of the silver Chevy, the IBPD posted photos to their Facebook of the rescue, along with a sincere message of thanks to the mechanic who volunteered his time to help.
“Thank you to John from Ryan Automotive/Goodyear in the CISC,” the IBPD wrote. “He volunteered his time and got this large cat that had wedged itself in an engine compartment on W Prospect Ave free today.”
A Veterinarian Weighs In On Cold Weather & Animals
Jennifer Welser, Chief Medical Officer at Mars Veterinary Health, spoke to PEOPLE earlier this month about what our companions face with cold weather. She noted that we tend to assume animals are “more resilient” to cold weather than they are because of their fur.
“…the reality is they are susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite, too,” says Welser. She goes on to state that just like humans, their little bodies have limits. When we’re cold, blood reroutes to “keep vital organs warm” leaving extremities vulnerable.
Wesler advises keeping outside time to a minimum. “Pets should always have access to a warm, covered space during the winter,” she says. “If it’s very cold, or you’re spending more time outdoors, consider a coat and paw protection.”
Common sense plays a vital role. If an animal is “small, underweight, very young, or senior” they may be more susceptible when the temperatures drop.
If you live in such an area and think that your companion might be at risk, consult your veterinarian about what they may need.
Do you check your car for cats hiding from the cold weather? Are you happy to see that people put all this effort into saving a cat in need? Let us know in the comments below.
