It is not just us humans that feel the effects of winter. Cold and dry air, along with the shorter days of winter, can affect the health and comfort of your pets. Creating the right winter pet care routine can help dogs and cats stay warm and protected. Here are seasonal pet care tips that every pet parent should know.

1. Keep Pets Comfortable

Not every pet is built for the winter, with cold temperatures and winter weather.

Winter Pet Care Tips:

• Ensure warm pet beds are available on the floor and away from drafts
• Put pet coats and jackets on for outdoor walks
• Limit outdoor walks

2. Winter Grooming

It is essential to continue with grooming. Grooming is essential to help avoid matting, skin infections, and discomfort.

Tips for Grooming in Winter:

• Brush to get rid of unwanted hair to help in improving insulation
• Do not shave coats too short for winter
• Use moisturizing shampoos to avoid dry skin

Grooming is the essence of winter pet care and is essential to help your pets survive the cold weather.

3. Protect Paws and Skin 

The snow, cold surfaces and chemicals used for de-icing pose a large risk to your pet’s paws and skin. 

Here are a few seasonal tips to protect your pet’s paws: 

• Clean your pet’s paws after every walk. 
• Use a pet-safe balm to protect your pet’s paws from cracking. 
• Make some checks to see if your pet’s paws are red or to check if there are any cuts, or if there’s ice caught between your pets toes. 

4. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Hydration 

With the chilly weather, pets burn a lot more energy because they are working to keep their bodies warm. They will often feel drained and dehydrated because the dry winter air drains their moisture.  Tips to care for your pet in winter include: 

• Providing your pet with accessible, fresh, and unfrozen water.  
• Make changes to your pet’s food if they are more active or if they are spending time outside more. 
• Before any big food changes, talk to a vet.

5. Watch for Winter-Related Health Issues 

Joint pain and arthritis can worsen in the cold. Older pets are especially affected. 

To take care of your pets in the winter, consider: 

• Trying to keep your older pets warm and active in the house. 
• Consult with the vet regularly.

6. Create a Safe Indoor Environment 

Indoor safety is especially important to consider when your pets will now be spending more time indoors.Winter Care For Pets: 

• Move space heaters, fireplaces, cords, and anything else that can cause burns to a safe place
• Remove toxic plants and other poisonous things from reach
• Make sure there is enough air flow. 

Wrapping Up 

Winter can be safe and comfortable for your pets. With thoughtful pet winter care, winter grooming, and careful seasonal pet care your dogs and cats can be warm, healthy, and safe.