COLD WEATHER CARE

 

Winter is upon us and even though Houston is a temperate area we still have some cold and freezing weather to prepare for.  It’s time to think about your pet’s care during the coming months of cold weather.

 

INSIDE PET

If your pet is primarily an inside pet, the cold weather can be miserable.  Animals who spend their time indoors don’t develop the thick winter coats of their outdoor cousins.  Indoor pets also suffer from dry skin in the winter from the effects of central heating.  There are all kinds of products in the pet supply stores to help combat this problem and your best advice always comes from your veterinarian.  Very thin-coated animals like Chihuahuas benefit from sweaters when they must go outside.

 

OUTSIDE PET

Winter is hardest on the outside pet.  Cold weather combined with our famous high humidity and rain can make your pet miserable and in some cases put his life in danger.  Special care should be taken to make sure your pet has a warm—and equally important—dry place to be.  Roomy doghouses, raised off the ground with insulating bedding can be very effective.  It’s very important that the housing be free from drafts and any dampness.  Doors should be covered so wind and water can’t chill the pet’s bedding.  Remember, when the temperature drops too low it’s time to bring the dog in the house.  TV weather warnings of PPP means bring the pets inside.  Puppies, kittens, and elderly animals should never be exposed to the cold.

 

CATS

Cats will seek the warmest place possible.  Keep your cats inside and remember to honk your car horn before starting the engine.  Loose cats sometimes curl up on motors to keep warm.

 

Remember that cold temperatures require animals to burn more calories to stay warm.  You may find you have to increase your pet’s ration of pet food until the weather warms up.  Be sure the pet still has plenty of clean drinking water that doesn’t freeze.

 

If your pet gets too cold, bring him into a warm area.  Don’t use extremes like hot water to thaw toes and ears and don’t rub any frozen areas.  This could cause more harm to already damaged tissue.  Contact your veterinarian or take the pet to an emergency clinic as soon as possible.

 

Most dogs start feeling frisky when the temperature drops.  A little planning can keep your puppy playful and your kitty, cozy.