Pet winter tips to help protect your pet this season

Protect your pet this winter season!

Winter is right on our doorstep, you may be getting ready with your best soup recipes or buying new clothes. While you are preparing for the winter, you should also think about your pet’s winter needs.

Just like humans, your dog or cat may need some extra requirements when it comes to preparing for the winter.

The colder temperature might mean that they are not able to get out as much as they did in summer, which can make winter seem dull or boring. Fortunately, we have some pet winter tips that can help a pet stay active and healthy during this cold season.

Pet winter tips:

Get a Winter coat

A winter coat can provide style and warmth for your fluffy friends. Even though some cat and dog breeds have thick fur keeping them warm, they can still benefit from additional heat while they are outside or walking in the cold.

Generally, a winter coat is particularly important for any pet breeds that have thin or shorter hair. Another key factor is the age of your pet. Older dogs or cats will most likely need some extra warmth.

The coverage from this will cover them from the neck to the base of the tail, make sure that your pet’s coat is the right size and is not restricting its movement.

Shelter and bedding

Suitable shelter seems like an obvious requirement, but double-check that your pet is safe from the wind and rain during winter. It is vital to protect your pet and ensure they have adequate warmth and shelter to combat this cold weather. Make sure you place your pet’s bed away from drafts, hard surfaces and raise the bed off the ground.

Old pets with joint disease may need some extra TLC and warmth needs around their shelter. Providing padded bedding or warmer blankets is a great way to make sure your pet escapes the cold.

Breeds such as French Bulldogs, greyhounds, Bull Terrier’s, Sphynx cats, or other short-haired breeds tend to feel the cold more than others.

You can also use pet heating pads and disks. They are safe and can be placed on their bedding or favourite spots. It is best to avoid using hot bottles as this can quickly become a chew toy hazard in most cases.

Keep exercising your pet

The main impulse for many in winter snuggle under a warm blanket and stay indoors. However, your pet still needs to exercise and tackle boredom. You can do this by providing soft toys or balls to play inside… 

Or, you can still go out for a walk with them. Grab the lead, put both your pets and your winter coat and head out for a cold walk. The cooler weather doesn’t mean our dogs or cats won’t enjoy just as much exercise.

It is important to steadily exercise and warm up your pet to reduce any injury. If your pet is slower than usual or in pain, this can be exacerbated by the cold weather – If you have any concerns, be sure you consult your local vet.

Keep up with your parasite treatments

Although parasites are common during the warmer seasons, they still manage to live all year round. It is still extremely important for your pet’s health that you continue with the tick, flea and worm treatments.

Conclusion

Pets are fantastic companions and loving members of the family. You can cuddle and stay warm together, but these tips will ensure your pet enjoys this winter. The cold requires some small changes in routine but keeping your pet active will be highly beneficial.

 

At My OwnVet, we are more than ready to provide ideas to keep your pet from being bored. If you want to know some more pet winter tips call our office at 07 3277 6594 or use our online booking to schedule your appointment!

Until next time,

Your friend and vet expert,

MyOwnVet