Winter brings its own set of risks for pets, some obvious and some easy to overlook. Running through a quick checklist each season can prevent accidents and emergencies. Here are the basics for both dogs and cats.
Outdoor exposure
- Limit time outside in severe cold. Tolerance varies by breed, coat, age, size and health. Small, short-coated, young, senior and ill pets are generally more vulnerable.
- Consider a coat or sweater for dogs who get cold easily. Make sure it fits well and does not restrict movement.
- Watch for signs of being too cold: shivering, whining, slowing down, lifting paws or looking for shelter. Head inside if you see them.
- Know the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Weakness, lethargy, pale or gray skin, or very cold ears, tail or paws warrant a call to your veterinarian.
- Keep ID current. Snow can mask familiar scents, and pets can become disoriented. Make sure collars, tags and microchip information are up to date.
Chemicals and toxins
- Antifreeze. Traditional antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which tastes sweet and is extremely toxic to pets even in small amounts. Clean up spills immediately, store containers tightly closed and out of reach, and consider products marketed as less toxic. If you suspect your pet has licked antifreeze, contact a veterinarian immediately, because prompt treatment is critical.
- Ice melt. Store it securely and wipe paws after walks.
- Rodent bait. Rodents seek shelter indoors in winter, and so do baits. Many rodenticides are dangerous to pets. Ask a pest professional about pet-safe placement or alternatives.
Cars and garages
Outdoor and community cats sometimes seek warmth under car hoods or in wheel wells. Before starting your car on a cold day, knock on the hood or honk briefly to give any hidden animal a chance to escape. Never leave pets alone in a car during cold weather, since cars can trap cold much like they trap heat in summer.
Inside the house
- Space heaters and fireplaces. Use screens and keep heaters where they cannot be knocked over. Choose heaters with automatic shutoff.
- Cords and blankets. Heating pads and electric blankets meant for people can overheat pets. Use products designed for pets and follow the instructions.
- Dry skin. Indoor heating can dry out skin. A humidifier may help. Talk to your vet if your pet is itchy or flaky.
- Carbon monoxide. Make sure detectors are installed and working. Pets are affected too.
Food, water and power outages
Pets who spend more time outdoors may need extra calories in winter, while indoor pets who are less active may need fewer. Ask your vet about your pet’s needs. Make sure any outdoor water source has not frozen.
Keep a winter emergency kit with several days of food, water, medications, litter and a list of your vet’s contact information and the nearest emergency clinic. Storms can knock out power or block roads.
This checklist is general information. Your veterinarian can help you tailor winter precautions to your pet.
