Caring for your pets during the winter months

Caring for your pets during the winter months

Winter can be tough on pets, just like it is for people. To keep your pets healthy, safe, and comfortable during the cold months, here’s a practical checklist for winter pet care:

🐾 General Tips for All Pets

  1. Limit time outside: Don’t leave pets outdoors for extended periods. Short, supervised walks or playtime are okay, but cold temperatures and wind chill can be dangerous.

  2. Watch for signs of cold: Shivering, anxiety, and slowing down on walks may be signs your pet is too cold.

  3. Keep them dry: Wet fur loses its insulating ability. Dry your pet off if they get wet from rain, snow, or slush.

🐶 Dogs

  • Paw care:

    • Ice, salt, and de-icing chemicals can irritate paws. Wipe paws after walks or use booties.

    • Trim paw fur to prevent ice buildup.

  • Clothing:

    • Short-haired or small breeds may benefit from a dog sweater or coat.

  • Exercise:

    • Keep up a regular exercise routine indoors if outside activity is limited.

  • Watch out for antifreeze: It's toxic and has a sweet taste dogs might be attracted to.

🐱 Cats

  • Keep them indoors: Cats are safer and warmer indoors. Outdoor cats can suffer frostbite or seek warmth in dangerous places like car engines.

  • Check your car hood: Bang on it before starting your engine in case a cat is hiding inside for warmth.

  • Warm sleeping spots: Provide cozy beds away from drafts, ideally elevated off cold floors.

 

🐰 Rabbits & Small Pets

  • Keep indoors if possible: Move hutches or cages inside or into a sheltered garage/shed (not airtight — still needs ventilation).

  • Add insulation: Use extra bedding (hay/straw) and thermal covers.

  • No drafts: Keep cages away from drafty windows or doors.

  • Monitor water bottles: Check they’re not frozen and provide fresh water regularly.

 

  • Other Key Points

    • Hydration: Cold weather can still dehydrate pets — make sure they have access to fresh, unfrozen water.

    • Nutrition: Some pets may need more calories in winter; check with your vet.

    • Heaters/fireplaces: Pets are drawn to heat, but they can burn themselves. Use screens or barriers as needed.

    • Vet checkup: Especially for older pets, winter can worsen arthritis or other conditions.

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