When the coldest months of the year return, it can be difficult to decide whether you should allow a pet outside. However, being cooped up makes some animals unhappy. If your furry friend prefers getting fresh air, make sure you provide them with the proper pet care so they stay safe and healthy during the winter.

5 Winter Pet Care Tips for Outdoor Animals

1. Provide a Shelter

While pets should never be kept outside for too long during the winter, you can provide a shelter for them when they are out of the house. This should offer ample protection from the snow, rain, and wind and allow your pet to soak in some much-needed warmth. Build or buy one with a floor, and line it with cozy blankets or cedar shavings. Even better, get a heating pad made specifically for animals.

2. Adjust Their Diet

Outdoor pets need more food during the winter than any other time of the year. They burn calories trying to stay warm, so make sure you provide them with plenty to eat. Water is a necessity as well, but you may need a heated bowl to keep it from freezing. Check on their food and water often to ensure they’re getting the nourishment they need.

3. Dress Them Up

Pets, especially those with short or thin fur, need extra protection from the bitter wind and cold. Bundle them up in insulating jackets and warm sweaters. Snow boots also help keep their paws safe from rock salt, ice, and snow. Sweaters and boots can only provide so much protection, however, so don’t let furless or elderly pets out during the winter.

4. Wipe Them Down

Even with protective gear on, snow and salt are bound to wind up in your cat or dog’s fur and paws. After a walk, play, or brief breather outdoors, brush out any debris on your pet, and wipe their paws off. Keep them groomed regularly to get rid of excess salt and grime that may have escaped your reach.

5. Watch for Hazards

Among rock salt and frostbite, there are a few things to look out for when letting your pets outside. Salt, antifreeze, and other substances are poisonous and often deadly to ingest. Keep pets away from these, and store bags and bottles in a safe place inaccessible to animals. If your car is parked outside, check underneath it periodically to make sure no cats are lounging there for warmth. 

At High Point Veterinary Hospital, you can expect compassionate, top-notch pet care. Their attentive veterinarians and staff are available for emergency help, grooming, boarding, and a multitude of medical services. These animal lovers are dedicated to helping your pet achieve a long, healthy life. Learn more about the services they provide online, or call (336) 889-3832 to set up an appointment.