How to keep your pet safe in the cold month of February
Pets may be at risk from cold weather, particularly in February when temperatures are particularly low. Taking additional care of your pet, whether it be a dog, cat, or small animal, guarantees their comfort and safety.
Keep them warm
Reduce the amount of time your pet spends outside because long exposure to cold might cause hypothermia or frostbite. If necessary, put on a coat or sweater before taking your pet for a stroll, especially if they are little, have short hair, or are elderly. Take a walk in the mid-morning or afternoon when it's the warmest outside and keep an eye out for symptoms of chilly stress, including shivering, whining, paw lifting, or a need for warmth.
Provide warm bedding, such as blankets, pet beds, or heated pads, to keep them warm indoors because it can get chilly inside during the cold weather. Additionally, because damp fur loses insulation and becomes colder more quickly, keep them dry.
Paw protection
In cold weather, most roads are dusted with salt or antifreeze, therefore it is important to wipe paws after walks since salt, antifreeze, and ice can irritate the paws or be even harmful. Dry, cracked paw pads can be avoided by using pet-safe paw balm.
Steer clear of icy surfaces since they can cause injury from slipping.
Nutrition
Cold weather can affect your pet’s nutrition and hydration needs, making it essential to adjust their diet and water intake to keep them healthy, warm, and energized.
Dogs that play outside or take lengthy walks burn more calories to stay warm, so they may require more food, however, if indoor pets aren't as active in the cold, they might require fewer calories. To modify portion quantities according to your pet's lifestyle, speak with your veterinarian.
Winter health nutritional supplements, like omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, assist in keeping the coat healthy and preventing dry skin. Joint health is supported by glucosamine and chondroitin, particularly for elderly pets throughout the winter months. Probiotics improve digestion, particularly when dietary adjustments are made. Consult your veterinarian about your pet's supplement requirements.
Hydration
As wintertime causes many pets to drink less water, which raises the risk of dehydration, give your pet clean, fresh water at all times to keep them hydrated, and refill often to keep it looking nice. For pets kept outside, use heated water dishes to keep them from freezing.
Increasing moisture intake can be achieved by adding water to dry food or serving wet food. One warm, delicious approach to increase hydration is with pet-safe bone broth.
Cats and other small pets
Cold weather can be dangerous for cats, especially those who spend time outdoors. Try to reduce your cat's time outside, especially in freezing weather, and keep them inside as much as possible because cold temperatures can cause hypothermia or frostbite. To keep them occupied and active, create an indoor play space and create warm, inviting environments for them to stay in, such as sunny areas, heated beds, or soft blankets.
Provide an insulated shelter for your outdoor-roaming cat or stray cats you care for. This should be a small, enclosed area lined with straw (not blankets, which absorb moisture). To keep cold air from entering, raise the shelter above the ground. Use a bowl of warm water to keep from freezing and provide additional calories to assist in keeping the body warm. Keep an eye out for signs of frostbite or hypothermia, including lethargy or shivering, pale or bluish ears, tail tips, or paw pads, as well as behavioural problems like hiding more than normal. Seek veterinarian attention right once if you observe these symptoms of discomfort.
Cats may seek out engine bays for warmth, and when the car starts, they may get injuries, therefore before starting the engine, always bang on the hood. To keep the pet safe use pet-safe products outside your house and stay away from rock salt and antifreeze, which are poisonous if consumed or licked off by paws. Cats may also cuddle too close to heaters and fireplaces, which could result in burns or mishaps.
Conclusion
Even though February can be a difficult month, your pet can stay warm, cosy, and secure if they receive the right care. Make their indoor area comfortable, restrict their exposure to the outdoors, and keep an eye on the weather. To keep your pet safe, a little additional work goes a long way.
Your pet's appetite, hydration, and energy levels can all be affected by winter, so make sure to modify their diet properly. Throughout the winter, you can keep your pet healthy and cosy by giving them wholesome meals, clean water, and a comfortable space.
