10 winter wonderlands, zero worries – How to keep your pets safe during every snowball fight
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As the winter season settles in, it brings chilly temperatures and potential pet challenges. From frosty paws to exposure to de-icing agents, the colder months require special attention to ensure pets stay safe and healthy. We have outlined expert tips to help you provide the best care for your pets this winter.
Balance Your Petās Diet
- RegulatingĀ your pet’s food intakeĀ is essential for their overall well-being during the winter season. Like humans, dogs and cats depend on calories to fuel activities that help them stay warm. However, the required calorie intake varies based on your pet’s weight and coat type.
Pets with low body fat and thin or hairless coats may need extra calories to maintain body heat, while those with higher fat density and thick coats may require fewer calories to thrive because they are more insulated against the cold and their energy expenditure is less.
Safeguard Your Space for Pets
- As the colder months settle in, pets may find comfort in spending more time indoors. Ensuring your pet’s safety in winter requires additional precautions. Keeping typical hazards like cleaning supplies, electrical wires, houseplants, and medications out of reach is crucial. For instance, turn off the space heaters before leaving your pet alone.
Additionally, resupply pet distractions such as chew toys for dogs or scratching posts for cats, providing them with engaging activities during the colder days. When using ice and snow melts around your home, prioritize pet-friendly products. Common melts, likeĀ calcium chlorideĀ and sodium chloride, may irritate your pet’s paws and could be toxic if ingested.
Protect Your Pet’s Paws
- Even during the coldest months, dogs require outdoor time for daily exercise and bathroom routines. This entails walking on icy sidewalks treated with rock salt and deicing chemicals in frigid climates. Use paw guards to create a protective barrier between your pet’s sensitive paw pads and salt-treated or cold surfaces.
This solution prevents damage and restores moisture to dry or cracked paws. For added protection, consider using booties for your cat or dog. Upon returning indoors, make it a habit to thoroughly wipe down your pet’s paws to eliminate any potential chemicals or debris.
Efficiently Manage Outdoor Time
- Help your dogs and cats acclimate to winter conditions by taking the necessary supplies and precautions for outdoor adventures. Before you go out, ensure your pet is leashed and chipped, especially when there’s snow on the ground. Snow can mask scents familiar to your pet, making it challenging for them to find their way home if lost.
Keep your pet’s information updated and legible. While you’re outside with your pet, keep the duration short. Although a thick coat offers some protection against harsh winds, pets can still be vulnerable to the cold. Remember, if the weather is too cold for you, it’s likely too cold for your dog or cat.
Create an Indoor Potty Solution
While many dogs are accustomed to outdoor bathroom breaks, harsh winter conditions may necessitate indoor alternatives. An indoor pet toilet is especially helpful during uncomfortable winter days. Place the designated indoor potty area in a warm part of your home and ensure your pet is accustomed to using it.
In situations where outdoor relief is necessary, clear a spot in the snow near your home for your pet. Cats also require a cozy bathroom area during cold weather. While some cat owners may keep the litter box in less visible spots like the garage or basement, these areas might be too cold for cats in winter. Opt for a warmer area within your home that your kitty can easily access.
If your pet has health concerns, contact Autumn Trails and Veterinary Center. We provideĀ comprehensive pet careĀ and strategies to promote optimal pet health. Contact us to get precise guidelines for your pet. We are located in Charlottesville, VA. Appointments are conveniently available. Call us at (434) 971-9800.
