Drivers are being asked to do something quick and simple before starting their car this autumn and winter. It’s nothing advanced or technical, but it could prevent serious harm.
Motoring specialists at LeaseLoco.com have reminded drivers of the good habit of making a quick and proper check that their car is clear this season. As the weather gets colder, cats often look for warmth and shelter away from the rain and freezing temperatures.
Many of them curl up in dangerous places, such as engine bays, wheel wells, and underneath cars. Unfortunately, if the engine is started in these places, cats risk serious injury.
John Wilmot, CEO of LeaseLoco.com, said: “We’ve all seen cats curled up under cars from time to time, and there’s a good reason for it – they’re often looking for warm shelter as the weather gets colder. The wheel well and engine bay aren’t exactly the safest spots for cats to be, especially if the engine is started up.
“As it gets colder, it’s worth having a quick check for cats hiding under your car, especially in the mornings when it’s particularly chilly. If you see one perched up on your wheel, just give it a moment to get out. You won’t need to take any action; the chances are that when the cat sees you, they’ll make their own way out.
“Of course, if a cat is hiding in your engine bay, you may not spot it so easily. Take a moment to knock on the car bonnet, the noise will encourage cats to get out of there.”
LeaseLoco.com have shared a checklist on how to spot cats hiding under and around cars, as well as what to do when finding one that’s stuck. It involves a few simple steps that aren’t too complicated or time-consuming for people to consider before a journey.
Check the tyres
Take a quick walk around your car and check that there isn’t a cat tucked up in the wheel wells. If you do see a cat there, it will likely leave once it sees you. If the cat is sleeping, lightly kick the tyre to create movement to wake it.
Check the bonnet
Knocking on the bonnet can help check for cats in the engine bay by startling them and encouraging them to make their way out. If you think a cat might be under the bonnet but there isn’t one coming out when you knock, then you’ll want to take a closer look in case it’s stuck. Lift the bonnet and carefully check around the different components. Use a flashlight if it’s dark.
Listen for sounds
Cats can be quiet when they’re hiding, so listen carefully for subtle sounds of snoring, meowing, or rustling. If you find a cat in your engine bay, remain calm and avoid attempting to pull them out as this may cause them to scratch or bite out of fear.
Instead, see if the cat will come out on its own by placing a treat nearby. If the cat is stuck, call the RSPCA or a local animal welfare organisation.