Here's How You Can Protect Your Pets During Extreme Winter Weather This Season

As the country reels under historically low temperatures, it's crucial to prioritise the well-being of our pets in the face of the cold weather. Taking steps to ensure winter safety for dogs and cats, particularly in extreme cold, involves making swift adjustments to their routines to accommodate the weather conditions.

Tips to keep your pets safe in winters

Here are our top tips for how to keep your furry friends safe and warm when it's cold outside.

1) Limit outdoor exposure

All pets feel cold, be it a dog, cat, birds or rabbits. It¡¯s better to protect them from being exposed to the chill, lest they catch cold. Many of us also have stray pets (cats and dogs) around our homes that tend to snuggle and sleep under the cars. Ensure that you check before starting the car engine and bring them inside.

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2) Keep them warm

Can you imagine stepping out in the cold without a sweater or a high collar jacket? No. The same applies to your pet too. There are umpteen sweaters and jackets available for cats and dogs in pet shops. Pick the right size and keep them warm and cosy when you take them for a run.

Additionally, warm beddings and mattresses for pets come in various shapes and sizes. Get one and see how your pet loves snuggling up on it. Also, place the bedding in a warm spot (carpeted area) preferably where he sleeps everyday so that he doesn¡¯t feel unfamiliar.

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3) Stay clear of water bodies

Water presents another incredibly dangerous predicament for curious cats and dogs who want to explore their surroundings. Keep your pet leashed when out on walks near ponds, lakes, and rivers to avoid accidents.

4) Prevent dehydration

While it's a common misconception, pets (and people) can still get dehydrated in the winter even when it's not swelteringly hot outside. Always carry a bottle of water along with you for walks and make sure your pet is drinking enough at home and outside (and make sure their water bowl doesn't freeze over!). A good way to check your pet for dehydration is to gently grasp a bit of your pet's loose skin on the back of their neck. If the skin springs back into place, your dog is hydrated. If not, it's time for them to take water ASAP. You can also check their gums to make sure they're a hydrated, healthy pink color.

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5) Check for frostbite

Your cat or dog will need extra attention when temperatures are super cold. Paws especially should be protected from the freeze, since it's the part of your pet's body that doesn't have protective fur to keep warm. If your pet is picking up their paws off the ground, it's probably too cold for your pet to be outside. Even cats who are used to spending time outdoors should have a cozy place to warm up, as extreme temperatures mean Kitty should come in when it's cold (especially overnight). Time to get inside and warm up by the heat register or in a heated bed.

6) Watch for signs of hypothermia

Both cats and dogs can suffer from this condition when temperatures drop, so learn the signs of hypothermia and how to treat it quickly during cold snaps. It's possible to remedy a slight drop in your pet's temperature with warm blankets and warm (not hot!) drinks like chicken broth. But severe drops in temperature can cause pets to collapse and even die. A sweater or wind-proof jacket can help your pup stay warm during poop breaks outside, but time outdoors should be limited (especially for puppies, dogs who are small, or elderly animals).

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7) Health checkup in winters

Pets that are prone to arthritis might have a hard time during the winter months. It is therefore important for you to pay extra attention to his exercise routines. Consult your veterinarian for health supplements and other medication if your pet experiences joint pain!

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