There is a rule of thumb that if it is too cold outside in winter for us, then it is too cold for our pets, so we need to prepare them for winter.
Like us, each of our pets is different, different characters, likes and dislikes and tolerance to temperature. One of my dogs likes winter, and loves snow, another shivers when the temperature drops below ten degrees, but he doesn’t like the heat either! Here are some tips to prepare our pets for winter.
Dogs
Warm coats or jumpers for walkies are a must for any dogs with little or thin fur, or elderly ones. Waterproof coats are perfect for wet winter weather and padding or insulation will keep them warm as the temperature drops. As the nights are long, walkies can be in the dark in January so consider purchasing a coat with reflective strips or buy a reflective overcoat to place over the top.
It is vitally important to keep a close eye on your dog’s feet in winter. Some people choose to use booties but if you don’t you should thoroughly clean your dog’s feet after a walk as paths are often salted or gritted in winter and this is poisonous to dogs. Another lethal poison for dogs and cats is antifreeze so be extremely vigilant about using it and storing it.
When out walking in winter avoid walking with your dog on ice or frozen surfaces and always avoid frozen lakes, ponds and rivers.
Cats
As a rule, cats do tend to spend more time inside in winter so make sure they have plenty of beds available and litter trays. If you cat lives outside or likes to spend a lot of time outdoors in winter, make sure they can access a sheltered crate or box with plenty of warm bedding, access to clean fresh water and ample food.
As with dogs, check your cat’s feet when they come in from outside.
Small pets
Small pets such as guinea pigs and rabbits can live outdoors in winter, but you should get them used to being outside well before winter because this way their coats thicken up and provide protection from the cold.
Outside hutches and enclosures need to be winter proofed from cold, damp, wet and draughts. Insulate under floors, walls and roofs and provide lots of bedding. Bedding must be changed more frequently than in summer as they will be spending more time inside.
Consider giving small animals an appropriate winter diet which will be more concentrated and check water regularly as it could freeze up more often.
Indoor pets
Even for indoor pets, including mice, rats and gerbils it is important to provide extra bedding for the times when the central heating is off. Also make sure their pens or houses are away from draughty places.
Preparing your pets for winter as is vital to their health and wellbeing as preparing for our own winter health.
Rob Bullock https://robbullockauthor.blogspot.com