Ellie is available for adoption from PAWS and More in Washington.

While area residents do their best to avoid bitter cold temperatures this week, stray cats and other critters should also be monitored this time of year.

PAWS and More Animal Shelter Director Amber Talbot says they typically receive a few cats each year that were traumatized from being trapped under a vehicle hood during the winter, “So it’s pretty darn common, and they really are seeking that shelter. And if you get home from work and your car is parked out on the street or in a driveway, that heat source is very attractive to them. So it’s not surprising that we see so many kitties climb up in vehicle engines.”

Talbot advises to knock a few times on your vehicle hood and wait a moment before starting your engine to avoid accidentally driving off with some strays in your vehicle. She adds it’s also helpful to walk around your vehicle to check for any cats, as they sometimes like to sit in wheel wells. Another way to keep your pets or any stray animals safe this winter is to keep your garage and driveways clean of toxic liquids like antifreeze and motor oil.