Keeping Your Pets Comfortable During Winter

As the temperature drops, we tend to keep ourselves warm with cosy blankets and indoor comforts. Our pets, however, also feel the effects of colder weather, and it’s important to take steps to ensure their well-being. Here are a few practical tips to help keep your furry companions healthy and content throughout winter.

Caring for Older Pets in Cold Weather

If you notice your senior pet moving slower or having difficulty with daily tasks, it may be due to the cold. Just like humans, older pets can experience discomfort in cold conditions, especially if they suffer from arthritis or joint stiffness. To keep them comfortable, shorten their walks to no more than 20 minutes a day, focusing on light activities that help with blood circulation and heart health. Keeping their weight in check is also important, as carrying extra weight can make joint pain worse during the colder months. A little extra care goes a long way in keeping your older pet active and happy during winter.

Ensuring Warm Spaces for Pets

When we retreat indoors to escape the cold, we must also think about the safety and comfort of our pets. Cold weather can pose health risks to animals, so creating a warm, safe environment for them is essential. Here are a few ways to make sure your pet stays warm:

• Provide a comfortable resting place away from cold floors and draughts.
• Minimise outdoor time, as pets can be at risk of hypothermia.
• If your pet must be outside, ensure they have access to a weather-protected shelter.
• Add extra bedding or blankets to their sleeping area for warmth.
• Consider a cosy pet coat for short-haired or older pets to help keep them warm.
• Keep cats indoors unless they have access to a safe outdoor space.
• Give your dog a warm, indoor sleeping spot, like a bed or crate in a cosy part of the house.
• After washing your pet, dry them thoroughly with warm water to avoid them catching a chill.

These simple precautions will help ensure your pets are warm and safe throughout winter.

Keeping Your Pet Active in Winter

Even though cold weather might make us less inclined to go outside, exercise is still vital for your pet’s health. Skipping walks can lead to health problems like weight gain or diabetes, and your pet may also develop behavioural issues due to boredom. To keep your pet active, try scheduling walks during the warmest part of the day. If outdoor activities aren't an option, consider indoor exercises such as trick training, interactive games, or puzzle toys. Winter is also a great time to work on obedience training—don’t forget to reward them with plenty of treats and cuddles afterwards! By making time for exercise and mental stimulation, you can keep your pet happy and healthy, no matter the weather.