Although winter doesn’t officially start until December 21st, the temperatures are starting to dip! At least… here in the Northern Hemisphere they are. So if you live in an area that’s heading into winter, keep these cold weather pet care tips in mind!
Cold weather care tips for cats:
- Try to keep your cats inside during the cold weather months! Cats can easily become lost in the ice and snow — especially during a snowstorm.
- Check before starting your car — outdoor cats can sleep under the hood for warmth and be injured or killed when the car is started. Bang on the hood before starting the engine to give a cat a chance to escape.
- Don’t leave your cat alone in a car during cold weather or she may freeze to death.
- Antifreeze is poisonous to cats — clean up any spills promptly.
- Make sure your cat has a warm place to sleep — off the floor and away from cold drafts.
Cold weather care tips for dogs:
- Keep your pup on his leash in the snow and ice — especially during snowstorms. Dogs can lose their scent in the storm and quickly become lost.
- Did you know that more dogs are lost during the winter than any other season? Make sure your dogs always wear collars with ID and rabies tags.
- Wipe your dog’s paws, legs, and stomach when he comes in from the cold. Salt, antifreeze, and other dangerous chemicals can be stuck on his feet and fur. Also, ice and snow can be painful to paw pads.
- Don’t leave your dog alone in a car during cold weather or he may freeze to death.
- Antifreeze is poisonous to dogs — clean up any spills promptly.
- Don’t shave your dog down to the skin during the colder months. A longer coat provides warmth and insulation.
- If you give your dog a bath, make sure he is completely dry before going outside.
- Short haired breeds may need a coat or sweater for warmth. Look for a coat or sweater with a high collar (to keep the neck warm) and coverage of the back, sides, and belly.
- Age and certain health conditions may make your dog sensitive to the cold. Take him outside only for bathroom breaks; don’t force him to romp in the snow if he doesn’t like it!
- Make sure your dog has a warm place to sleep — off the floor and away from cold drafts.
More outdoor safety tips for pets!