Winter is around the corner, which means it is time for pet parents to prepare for the cold and in some places, chilly rain. Just like humans, cold tolerance varies from animal to animal, and depends on several factors. Thickness of their coat, activity level, age, health and body’s fat store, all play a part.
“Hence it becomes important to understand the needs of pets and take appropriate action to make them feel comfortable in the bitter cold,” said N.G Jayasimha of Humane Society International.
A release issued by the group noted that pets should be kept indoors, especially at night when the temperatures tend to drop. If left outside, animals can become unsettled, injured, unwell or freeze. Under no circumstances should pet cats be left outdoors, even if they roam outside during other seasons, said the release.
Exposed skin
“Animals feel cold and the winter chill can be threatening to your pet’s life if adequate precaution is not taken. Exposed skin on the nose, ears and paw pads is at a risk of frostbites and hypothermia during extreme cold. For this reason, short-haired dogs often feel more comfortable wearing a sweater — even during short walks,” said the release.
Paw protectants and paw pads can help protect your pet’s feet from cold-weather injury or damage, such as cracked or bleeding paw pads. Pets also like a comfortable place to sleep and many keep changing their resting location depending on their need for less or more warmth. The release suggests providing them with comfortable bedding and a few options to help them adjust to their sleeping place.
“ Extra energy is used by pets to keep their body warm and a little more food can provide the much-need calories to them. However, do not overfeed the pet because lack of exercise during cold spells could lead to excessive weight gain and obesity. Additionally, make sure your pet gets plenty of clean water so that they are well-hydrated,” he said.
The other precautions include bathing the pet fewer times than usual. Though it helps remove dirt and keep your pets clean, bathing them often could lead to the loss of essential oils, increasing the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. Seek recommendations from your vet for a moisturising shampoo and/or rinse.
Also since your pet will mostly stay indoors, it is important to ensure they do not have access to toxic foods like onions, xylitol (a sugar substitute), chocolate, medication bottles or household chemicals. It is also advisable to use heaters with caution around pets, because they can lead to burns, suffocation and even death.
Community pets
“A whining, anxious or shivering pet shows clear signs of illness. If you suspect your pet is ill, consult your veterinarian immediately,” noted the Society.
Community pets staying outdoors need as much support as indoor pets. Providing easily accessible food and water sources goes a long way in keeping the animals safe. Also, before heading out check near and around your cars for animals. Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car’s hood to scare them away before starting your engine.
If you encounter a pet left out in the cold, let the owner know that you’re concerned. Some people genuinely don’t know the risk cold weather poses to their pets or livestock.
