As freezing temperatures grip the country, pet owners must take extra precautions to ensure their furry friends stay safe and healthy.
Cold weather can pose serious risks to pets, including hypothermia, frostbite, and dry, cracked paws. Experts recommend a few essential steps to keep your pets warm and comfortable during extreme winter conditions.
Why Cold Weather Can Be Dangerous for Pets
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), exposure to harsh winter conditions can cause chapped paws, dry skin, and even dangerous reactions if pets lick ice-melting chemicals off their feet.
A general rule of thumb: If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet.
However, sensitivity to cold varies based on a pet’s breed, size, age, and overall health. For example:
- Dogs with thick, double-layered coats (like Huskies and Malamutes) tolerate cold better.
- Dogs with thin coats (such as Chihuahuas and Greyhounds) are more vulnerable to low temperatures.
- Puppies, senior dogs, and sick pets struggle to regulate body temperature and should be kept indoors as much as possible.
How Cold Is Too Cold for Pets?
Dogs
The ASPCA warns that no dog should be left outside in below-freezing temperatures for extended periods. Even large, thick-coated breeds can suffer if exposed for too long.
Cats
Stray cats can withstand temperatures of 15-20°F, but when the temperature drops below that, they are at risk of hypothermia. Some cities offer small, insulated shelters for stray cats, which can also be made from Styrofoam coolers.
Frostbite and Hypothermia Risks
Both dogs and cats face the risk of frostbite and hypothermia when exposed to freezing weather. These conditions affect the ears, paws, and tail tips, requiring immediate medical attention.
Signs that your pet is too cold include:
- Shivering
- Whining or showing signs of anxiety
- Holding up one or more paws
- Reluctance to walk
- Lethargy or weakness
Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe in Cold Weather
1. Keep Pets Indoors
Avoid leaving pets outside for long periods. If they must go outside, limit exposure time and ensure they have proper shelter.
2. Dress Your Pet for the Cold
Dogs with short fur benefit from sweaters or coats to keep them warm. Booties can also protect their paws from ice and harmful chemicals.
3. Dry Your Pet After Outdoor Walks
After a walk, wash and towel dry your pet’s paws, belly, and fur to remove ice, snow, and de-icing chemicals.
4. Keep Pets Away from Antifreeze and Ice-Melting Chemicals
Many de-icing salts and antifreeze products are toxic to pets. Always wipe your pet’s paws after a walk and store these substances out of reach.
5. Feed Pets Well and Provide Warm Water
Pets burn more calories in the cold to stay warm. Feeding them slightly more food can help them maintain their energy levels. Always provide warm, fresh water to prevent dehydration.
6. Avoid Walking on Ice
Frozen lakes and ponds can be dangerous, as ice may crack under your pet’s weight. Stick to safe, solid ground when taking your pet outdoors.
7. Provide Shelter for Stray Cats
If you care for neighborhood cats, leave food and warm water in an area protected from wind and snow. Shelters made from Styrofoam coolers can provide them with much-needed warmth.
What If It’s Too Cold for Bathroom Breaks?
Some dogs may refuse to go outside in extreme cold. If that happens, consider:
- Training them to use indoor pee pads during extreme weather.
- Taking them outside for very brief potty breaks, then immediately bringing them back inside.
Winter weather can be tough on pets, but with the right precautions, you can keep them safe, warm, and healthy.
Whether it’s dressing your dog in a coat, wiping their paws after walks, or providing extra food and water, these small steps make a big difference. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet!