Like humans, cats and dogs are more prone to getting sick during winter. They also feel the cold despite their furry coats. That’s why keeping your pets healthy, warm and fit is especially important during the colder months.
Do you want to provide the best care for your furry family members during winter? Continue reading to learn some handy tips!
Provide Warm Spaces and Shelter
Your pets should always have a warm space to rest and sleep in, but this is especially important during winter, when they will likely spend more time indoors. Ensure they always have a comfortable pet bed with blankets and toys they can sleep in and warm up in after playing outside. Make sure their pet beds are placed away from drafts or open doors or windows where they can still feel the cold.
Pets should also be sleeping inside during the winter months and should be allowed free access to your home where they can shelter from the cold, wind, and rain.
If you have outdoor pets, set up an appropriate shelter for them to sleep in at night where they can be protected from the cold and wind.
Supervise Them Around Heaters and Fireplaces
It’s natural to gravitate towards heat sources like heaters and fireplaces during winter, and the same is true for cats and dogs. However, unlike humans, cats and dogs can’t always tell when they are too close to a heat source and are about to get burnt.
Keep a close eye on your pets whenever you have a heater or fireplace on, and make sure they don’t get too close to avoid any burns, dry skin or injuries. Putting a fireplace screen or barrier in front of a fireplace or heater can be a good way to deter pets from getting too close.
Exercise
Just like humans, dogs and cats still need to continue exercising during the colder months. Investing in some extra indoor toys that will get your pets moving and their blood flowing is a great idea. That way, they can still be entertained and exercise while staying warm and dry.
However, it’s also important to keep up your dog’s walks and outdoor activities wherever possible. Just make sure they don’t spend too much time outside in the elements; if you notice them feeling the effects of the cold, take them inside.
Diet
All living things eat more during the colder months; that’s a fact. Dogs and cats burn calories easily during winter as their bodies utilise extra energy to stay warm, naturally increasing their appetites. Although it can be tempting to feed your dog or cat extra leftovers from last night’s dinner or buy them more treats, it can also be detrimental to their health over time.
If you notice your dog or cat’s appetite has increased during winter, the best thing to do is call their vet and ask them for dietary advice. That way, your pet is still getting the extra nutrition they need, but you’re also providing them with the best possible diet during the winter months.
If your pets spend more time indoors and around heat sources, they are more prone to dehydration. Ensure that your pets always have a fresh supply of cold water.
Grooming
Keeping up with your pet’s grooming appointments during winter is still essential. Cats and dogs still need to continue to have their fur brushed regularly as this removes the dead fur and allows for a healthier, shinier-looking coat, which will better protect them from the colder weather. It will also help prevent knots and matting.
If you get your pet’s fur trimmed, be mindful not to cut it too short, as this can leave little defence against the wind and elements.
Older Pets and Arthritis
The cold winter months can be particularly hard on older pets, especially those with arthritis. Keep up a gentle exercise routine for dogs and ensure your pets have a warm place to rest that is easy for them to access. If your pets have trouble walking up or down stairs, move their bedding, food and toys downstairs.
If your pet shows signs of pain or discomfort, take them to the vet as soon as possible. A vet has different methods to help treat arthritis. These include diet supplements containing Omega-3 fatty acids, pentosan injections, and anti-inflammatory medications.
Skin Issues
Dogs and cats can be more prone to skin infections as cold and moisture in the air can create drier skin that cracks easily. To prevent any skin issues, thoroughly dry your cat or dog whenever they come indoors, including their paws.
Winter Coats
Walk into any pet store during winter, and you’ll see a range of jackets and vests for dogs and cats. Although cats and dogs already have furry coats that will help keep them warm during the winter, some breeds have shorter fur coats than others and may benefit more from wearing an additional layer. Some dogs may even feel more inclined to walk during winter if they wear a warm jumper or vest.
If you notice your pet feeling discomfort or getting agitated while wearing a pet jumper or vest, remove it immediately and don’t force them to wear it.
Vet Visits
If you notice your dog or cat acting differently or feeling under the weather, contact your vet as soon as possible and keep your pet warm and comfortable. A vet visit is the best way to put your mind at ease and get the best health advice for your pet.
Our pets are part of the family, and it is only natural that we want to take the best care of them, especially during the colder months. Following the tips we have provided will ensure that your furry family members are kept happy, healthy and safe during winter.
Be mindful that not every dog and cat are the same, so keep a close eye on your pets, and if you’re unsure about something, call your vet for peace of mind.
At Potiki, we understand how precious your pets are. We also know that the unexpected can happen anytime, resulting in sky-high vet fees. These unforeseen circumstances are why it is best to be prepared with pet insurance. Potiki and petinsurance.com.au offer our customers flexible covers with excess and extras to give you and your family peace of mind. Visit our website to get a quick quote and see our different cover options.