- Preventing the risk of hypothermia
Pets should have the option to come indoors in winter and not spend too muchtime outdoors in the cold. Some pets are more physically prepared for thecolder weather than others, for example a Husky will fare better in the coldthan a Yorkshire Terrier. Pet owners should use their common sense and lookout for the tell-tale signs of discomfort, including shaking, barking andwhining – which could all be signs that your pet is too cold. Rabbits andGuinea pigs living in animal hutches should be brought indoors or to a dry andsecure location such as the garage or laundry.
- Winter warming wardrobe
Despite the change in weather, our furry friends still require regular dailyexercise to keep in shape. A warm winter jumper or coat can keep them cosy ontheir winter walks and keep them snug throughout the day.
- Blizzard-proof bedding
Your pet may spend more time lying down during the winter months, because justlike us, the cold weather tends to slow them down to conserve energy and keepwarm. Invest in a thicker, warmer bed in winter to make sure your pet hassomewhere comfortable to lie down throughout the day and night. It’s importantyour pet has 24-hour access to a comfortable bed to call their own, so theyknow where their safe space to reside is.
- Winter conscious diet
Pets need a well-balanced diet and it’s particularly vital to maintain ahealthy weight for your pet over the cooler months. If your cat or dog isoverweight, it can lead to severe health conditions such as heart disease,joint problems and arthritis, respiratory problems, diabetes, skin issues andeven premature ageing.
Ensuring your pet has a nutritious diet and regular exercise are key factorsin maintaining their healthy weight. While you may want to spoil your pet andgive them extra treats while spending more time indoors, over-feeding couldcause weight gain or other health-related issues. If you want to feed extratreats to your pet throughout the day, asses how much your feeding them andgive them less food at mealtimes to balance out the treats.
- Maintaining exercise in winter
Ensuring your pet has regular exercise is necessary to maintain their optimalphysical health and mental wellbeing. In addition to the obvious benefits,regular exercise for your four-legged friend can assist in reducing digestiveproblems and constipation, as well as build confidence in fearful dogs.Keeping your pet active and energised can also help reduce some commonbehavioural problems like anxiety, barking, digging and chewing.
- Pet grooming in the cooler months
Untrimmed dogs, cats and rabbits with an extra-thick winter coat requireregular grooming. A winter coat can hide trouble, such as lumps, bumps orsores; which is another good reason to keep brushing regularly. It can alsohelp identify and control fleas and ensure that your pet’s coat does notbecome matted and uncomfortable. As you brush, feel and look carefully forsigns of illness and check in with your local vet if you come across anythingsuspect.
Your pet will also love being affectionately fussed over when you groom them!
- Winter health care
The colder it gets, the harder animals’ bodies need to work to fend offillnesses as they are expending more energy trying to stay warm. If your pethas an underlying health condition, this is a particularly important time ofyear to go to the vets to get a regular health check-up.
Senior pets are particularly at risk, and the most common ailment we see insenior pets is arthritis. Older pets are more prone to having osteoarthritisin the joints and when the temperature drops these aches and pains can be muchmore painful than during other seasons.
During winter, the combination of a heated home and pets that are indoorsoften provides the ideal breeding environment for fleas. It’s important totreat your pet all year round with a quality product such as Advantage orNexGard.
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