When is cold too cold for your pets?
The Humane Society of America recommends pet parents limit their pets’ outdoor time when the temperature drops below 35 degrees F for dogs or below 45 degrees F for cats. Keep your pets inside with you and your family. Under no circumstances should pet cats be left outdoors, even if they roam outside during other seasons.
Hypothermia: Hypothermia can occur when pets are exposed to extreme cold for an extended period, especially if their fur and skin remain wet. Signs of hypothermia in dogs and cats include paleness, shivering, and lethargy. Consult your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your pet is experiencing hypothermia. No matter what the temperature is, windchill can threaten a pet’s life.
Frostbite: Frostbite freezes most commonly affects the paws, nose, ear tips, and tail of dogs and cats after exposure to extreme cold conditions. The skin often appears pale, bluish-white, or gray and feels significantly colder and firmer than the surrounding skin to the touch. Bring your pet to the vet immediately.
Here are some ways to keep your pet warm in wintertime:
Bring them indoors when the temperature reaches 35 degrees F and below.
You can keep your pets warm at home by dressing them in sweaters and booties. Place a blanket or pillow over a heating pad for them to lay on and warm up. Rugs, door seals, and insulated pet houses also help pets stay warm when the temperature plummets.
Rock salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate your pet’s foot pads. Wipe all paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates its mouth.
If your dog must be outdoors much of the day for any reason, it must be protected by a dry, draft-free shelter that is large enough to allow it to move comfortably but small enough to hold in body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches from the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your pet’s water dish to ensure the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls; when the temperature is low, your pet’s tongue can stick and freeze to metal.
Remove common poisons
Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but its sweet taste may attract animals and children. Wipe up any antifreeze spills immediately and keep it, like all household chemicals, out of reach. Coolants and antifreeze made with propylene glycol are less toxic to pets, wildlife, and families.
Dogs are at particular risk of salt poisoning in winter due to the rock salt used in many areas—often when licking it from their paws after a walk. Store de-icing salt in a safe place and wipe your dog’s paws, even after short walks. If your dog ingests rock salt, call a veterinarian immediately.