Dominique
During the winter months, when temperatures stay low, dogs and cats often need extra attention. Fun in the snow is great, of course—running through a white landscape or curiously sniffing at icy edges. But cold, slippery surfaces, and road salt also bring risks. These winter tips will help you get your pet through the winter safely and comfortably.
Road salt: small grain, big problem
In winter, streets and sidewalks are often salted to prevent slipperiness. Unfortunately, road salt can be very irritating to the paws of dogs and cats. Many animals start licking, biting, or gnawing at their paw pads, which can lead to wounds and even salt poisoning if they ingest too much salt.
What can you do?
- Apply a thin layer of Vaseline or special paw balm to the paw pads before the walk
- Rinse the paws with lukewarm water after returning home
- Dry the paws well to prevent cracking
Snow and ice: fun, but not without risk
For animals with longer coats, snow can quickly turn into annoying snowballs that stick to the fur. This hinders movement, can pull on the skin, and causes your pet to cool down faster.
Ice is also treacherously slippery. A slip can cause injuries, and thin ice is even life-threatening. Animals that fall through the ice can hardly climb out on their own and quickly become hypothermic.
Therefore, pay attention to the following:
- Keep cats indoors more often during frost and thaw
- Don’t let your dog run off-leash near ditches or ponds with ice
- Remove snowballs from the coat immediately
Keep your dog warm
Not every dog is equally resistant to the cold. Especially small dogs, dogs with a short or thin coat, older dogs, puppies, and recently groomed dogs can get cold quickly.
Practical tips:
- Keep moving during the walk
- Feel free to put a warm jacket on your dog
- Watch for signs such as shivering or walking slowly
Jackets, boots, and bathrobes
In addition to a winter jacket, dog boots can also be a great addition. They protect against cold, ice, and salt, and are especially suitable for sensitive paws.
After a wet or cold walk, a warm dog bathrobe is ideal. This helps your dog dry off faster and keeps them nice and warm. This isn’t just comfortable, but also helps prevent hypothermia.
And what about cats?
Cats are often more independent, but they also deserve extra attention in winter. Provide:
- Warm sleeping spots, away from drafts
- Extra blankets or a fleece bed
- Plenty of fresh water (that doesn’t freeze for outdoor cats)
Finally
Winter can be a wonderful time for both humans and animals, as long as you are well-prepared. With a little extra care, attention, and the right protection, you can help your pet stay healthy and comfortable through the cold months.
