As temperatures begin to drop, pet owners often focus on keeping themselves warm, but their furry companions need extra care too.
Cold weather can bring hidden risks, from frostbitten paws to dehydration and exposure to harmful chemicals like antifreeze. Even small changes in routine can have a big impact on your pet’s comfort and safety.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from online sources. Always consult your veterinarian for specific guidance on your pet’s health, especially during extreme weather conditions. Photos are for illustrative purposes only.
1. Not Adjusting Their Walks For The Cold
Taking your dog for walks is a vital part of their routine, but winter weather demands adjustments. Many pet owners continue their usual walk lengths without considering the frigid temperatures or icy sidewalks.
Shorten walks to avoid exposure to cold and take extra care with ice or salt that can harm their paws. Opt for quicker, more frequent walks instead of long outdoor sessions, especially when temperatures plummet below freezing or wind chills make conditions harsher than they appear.
2. Ignoring Paw Protection
Cold ground surfaces and harsh road salt create serious hazards for delicate paw pads. While it may be easy to forget, the cold and harsh chemicals on roads and pavements can cause severe damage to your pet’s paws.
Always check their paws after walks and consider using booties or paw balms to protect against ice and salt. Avoid leaving them outside too long in cold, wet conditions, as this can increase the risk of frostbite and painful cracking.
3. Forgetting To Keep Them Warm
Body size and coat type matter more than you might realize when temperatures drop. While some breeds, like Huskies and Saint Bernards, are built for colder climates, others, such as small dogs or short-haired breeds, may need extra layers.
Consider getting your pet a warm jacket or sweater to help them stay comfortable during the chilly months. Older pets and those with health conditions may also benefit from additional warmth, even if they have thicker coats.
4. Not Providing Enough Fresh Water
Hydration needs remain constant regardless of the season. In winter, we tend to think that pets need less water because they aren’t as active.
However, dehydration can still be an issue during the colder months, especially if they are eating dry food or spending time indoors with heating. Ensure that fresh water is always available and not frozen, particularly for outdoor pets or animals with access to an outdoor kennel or shelter area.
5. Leaving Them Outside For Too Long
Fresh air feels wonderful, but exposure limits become critical when frost arrives. It’s tempting to let pets enjoy the fresh air, but in freezing conditions, pets should never be left outside for long periods.
The cold can cause serious health issues, such as hypothermia and frostbite, even for breeds with thick coats. If your pet is an outdoor animal, make sure they have an insulated shelter and limit their time outside, especially during extreme cold snaps or windy conditions.
6. Not Checking For Ice And Snow In Their Fur
Snowballs clinging to fur might look harmless but cause real discomfort. After a snowy walk, pets can accumulate ice and snow in their fur, which can cause discomfort or even lead to skin issues.
If left unchecked, snow and ice can create clumps that mat into the fur and lead to irritation or freezing. Be sure to dry your pet’s fur after walks and check for snowballing in paws and underbelly, as this can be painful and restrict movement.
7. Overfeeding Them For Extra Warmth
Extra calories sound logical for combating cold, but weight management matters year round. While it’s tempting to feed your pet more during the colder months to help them stay warm, overfeeding can lead to weight gain and other health problems.
Keep an eye on their weight and continue to follow the appropriate feeding guidelines based on their size, activity level, and age. In some cases, your pet may require slight adjustments in their diet for energy, but these changes should always be based on professional advice.
8. Using Toxic Chemicals On Their Coat Or Environment
Household winter products often contain ingredients deadly to curious animals. During winter, many pet owners use antifreeze or other chemical products to treat their homes, driveways, and cars.
However, some of these substances are toxic to pets if ingested or if they come into contact with them. Make sure that your pet avoids areas treated with these chemicals, and be cautious about using them in places where your pet roams. Always wipe their paws after walks to avoid any harmful residue.
9. Not Adjusting Their Bedding For Winter
Sleep comfort directly affects your pet’s ability to regulate body temperature overnight. If your pet sleeps outside or has access to an outdoor kennel, it’s essential to provide a warm, insulated bed.
Blankets or straw can help them retain body heat, but be sure to choose materials that won’t get soggy or freeze in the cold. Indoor pets should also be given extra blankets or a comfortable, heated bed to keep them warm during the night and chilly mornings.
10. Ignoring The Risks Of Holiday Decorations
Festive décor brings joy but also introduces unexpected dangers for inquisitive companions. The holiday season brings festive décor, but it also introduces new hazards for pets. Tinsel, candles, and Christmas trees can all pose risks if your pet is curious.
Always keep decorations out of their reach, and be cautious with holiday plants like poinsettias, which are toxic to cats and dogs. Keep an eye on your pet to prevent them from chewing on dangerous decorations or getting tangled in wires.
