How to Keep Your Pets Happy and Healthy This Winter

As winter rolls in, many of us look forward to cosy nights at home, but the cold weather can bring challenges for our pets. They too can feel the impact of winter, whether it’s the drop in temperature or reduced outdoor activity. To ensure your furry companions stay healthy and comfortable during the colder months, it’s essential to make a few adjustments to their care routine. Here are some top tips to keep your pets happy and safe throughout winter.

Older pets, especially those suffering from arthritis or mobility issues, can struggle with the colder temperatures. The chill can worsen stiffness in joints, making daily activities more challenging. If your senior pet is finding it harder to get around, consider adjusting their exercise routine to shorter, gentler walks — 20 minutes a day is ideal. Focus on low-impact exercises that improve circulation, and keep an eye on their weight, as excess pounds can aggravate joint pain, particularly in winter. With a little extra care, you can help your elderly pet remain active and comfortable as the temperature drops.

Ensuring your pets have a warm and safe space during the winter months is crucial, especially for those who spend time outdoors. Exposure to freezing temperatures can be harmful, potentially leading to hypothermia. To keep your pets comfortable during the colder months, consider these practical tips:

• Provide a draught-free, warm resting spot that’s raised off cold surfaces.
• Limit outdoor time, especially during extreme cold, to prevent hypothermia.
• If they need to be outside, make sure they have a sheltered kennel that protects them from wind and rain.
• Give them plenty of bedding or blankets to keep them cosy.
• Consider a coat for older pets or those with thin fur to help retain warmth.
• Keep cats indoors unless they can access a secure outdoor area.
• Create an indoor sleeping area for dogs, like a bed in a warm part of the house.
• After baths or grooming, ensure pets are completely dry to prevent them from getting chilled.

These simple measures can ensure your pets stay warm, cosy, and protected during winter, helping them feel more comfortable and secure.

Maintaining your pet’s regular exercise routine is just as important in winter as it is in warmer months. While the cold may make us less eager to venture outdoors, exercise is essential for your pet’s health and happiness. A lack of activity can lead to weight gain and associated health problems like diabetes, as well as behavioural issues from boredom. Try to walk your pet during the warmest part of the day, or if that’s not possible, engage them with indoor activities like teaching new tricks or playing puzzle games.

Winter is also a perfect time for training sessions to reinforce good behaviour, using treats as positive reinforcement. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing cuddle on the sofa! Keeping your pet active, both physically and mentally, will help ensure they remain content and healthy, no matter how cold it gets outside.