As we head into winter, we’re excited by the idea of brisk walks with our pets and cuddling up in front of a crackling fire, but we’re also aware that the cold brings with it new conditions and challenges when it comes to pet health. Joint pain, flu-like symptoms… what do we need to look out for and how can we keep our pets happy and healthy all winter long?
We chatted to Dr Cooper, our vet here at Absolute Pets, for the full low-down.
Cat and dog behaviours do change in the colder months
In general, pets are inclined to eat and sleep more as the temperatures drop - very much like humans! Just as we find it difficult to get out of bed in the dark and need that extra blanket - so too do our pets.
Winter often leads to slightly less exercise and an increase in appetite so watch out for your pet becoming overweight, which has lots of health implications including high blood pressure and joint problems.
It is important to feed your cat or dog a balanced diet 365 days a year (you can read more about pet nutrition here).
Do dogs and cats feel the cold?
Yes, they can definitely feel the cold, especially small breeds and also young or old pets. Make sure your pet has a soft, warm place to rest and consider buying another warm blanket or two and position their bed in a warm spot inside the house (take a look at the range of cosy beds and blankets for dogs and cats here).
Some breeds are also more prepared for the cold because of their coats (think Saint Bernard or Husky), so if your pet has short-hair or is a small breed, think about adding a warm coat to their wardrobe!
Do dogs and cats get flu?
When we think of winter, we often think of getting sick and the same is the case for our pets. They too can get viral infections which can cause flu-like symptoms like coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, fever and lethargy. There are vaccinations available which help protect against these viral infections so, as always, make sure your standard vaccinations are up-to-date and consider adding the extras for the season. You can download our full routine care guide here - stick it on the fridge so you know when your pet's next vaccination is coming up.
What about joint pain in winter?
Older dogs are more likely to suffer from joint pain when cold. We advise a check-up with your vet so that you can make sure you are doing everything to minimise such pain. There are lots of supplements available which can help ease any pain, also a good highly nutritious diet (specific to your dog or cat’s breed, age and size) is essential or even joint care food (for example, Eukanuba Daily Care Sensitive Joints or Hill's Science Plan Canine Healthy Mobility).
If your pet suffers from arthritis, make sure you continue with their regular exercise routine so that all joints keep moving and stay lubricated and read up more about care for your senior dog.
Ideas to keep your pet stimulated & entertained indoors
There are loads of great ways to keep your pet entertained indoors during winter:
FOR DOGS:
FOR CATS:
- Consider interactive toys like lasers, or fun hide and seek toys like tunnels or even cat teasers keep them active and entertained when they don’t want to go out.
- Scratching posts are also great because they allow cats to express their natural behaviour without destroying any furniture!
Keep up regular exercise - even in the cold
It’s just as important to keep your pet active and fit in winter as it is in summer. However, try not to walk your pet in wet weather, and if they do get wet, dry them when you get home so that they don’t get cold.
Pets need their regular exercise routine, no matter the weather, so that they do not put on weight, and of course to keep them entertained, stimulated and happy!
Take additional safety measures
We also recommend reflective collars and leads to improve the visibility of pets. Especially if you take your dog for a walk in the evenings or early hours of the morning when its darker than the summer months.
A reflective cat collar is also a good idea for cats that like to go on adventures and explore beyond your property, also in the late evenings or early hours of the morning when its darker.
Above all else, use the time to play and cuddle!
Enjoy playing games together - learn new tricks or play hide and seek and perhaps spoil them with a Warm Buddy Bear to cuddle up to when you’re not at home.
Pop in to your local store or visit us online
If you have any questions, contact us on info@absolutepets.com or visit your local Absolute Pets store and we will gladly help! Wishing you a cosy few months ahead!
Happy and Healthy
The Absolute Pets team