Image used for illustrative purposes. Photo: File
It's a common sight to see stray cats taking shelter under cars, especially during winter. These felines might venture into the vehicle's inner parts, posing risks to both themselves and the driver. Fatima Hussein, a 36-year-old Emirati resident of Sharjah, experienced this firsthand. After starting her car one afternoon, she heard persistent meowing. Suspecting a cat was trapped inside, she drove to a nearby gas station where an employee eventually rescued the small feline.
Cats often seek refuge in cars due to various reasons. Hayfa Ali Rashid, the acting director of environmental safety at the Department of Umm Al Quwain Municipality, explained to Khaleej Times: "Cats seek shelter in cars during winter to escape harsh weather conditions like rain and cold." However, this behavior comes with risks. The heat from the engine can injure or kill a cat, and moving parts like the fan can cause severe harm. For drivers, the presence of a cat can damage wiring or engine components, leading to mechanical failures. A cat moving inside the vehicle while driving can distract the driver, potentially causing accidents.
Hayfa advised drivers to check under their cars and make noise, like tapping on the vehicle, to encourage any hiding cats to leave. She also warned that hidden cats can get injured or killed when the car starts, especially if they are in tight spaces within the engine. Sudden engine starts can startle the cat, causing it to panic and move erratically, leading to collisions with mechanical parts.
If a cat refuses to exit the vehicle, consider gently tapping on the car, starting the engine briefly without driving, placing strong-smelling food away from the car to lure the cat out, or using tools like a grabber or gloves to safely remove the cat. Experts recommend contacting veterinary clinics for assistance if the situation becomes too challenging.
Source link: https://www.khaleejtimes.com
