Winter Pet Safety Tips: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know

Content Sponsored by 24Petwatch

The sun is setting earlier, the temperatures are dropping, and you may see snow already, depending on your location. Like they say on Game of Thrones, “Winter is coming!”

While our dogs may be looking forward to playing in the snow and our cats are ready to curl up in front of the fireplace, winter can present some unique hazards for pets. From cold weather worries to chemical concerns, let’s discuss what every pet parent needs to know to keep their four-legged friend safe this winter.

Weather Hazards

For most of the country, winter means less daylight, colder weather, and the potential for freezing rain, snow, and icy conditions. So, taking precautions with your pets when outdoors is critical. Like people, pets can be at risk of hypothermia. Puppies and kittens, senior dogs and cats, and any pets with underlying illnesses, such as heart conditions or diabetes, are more susceptible. Limiting your pet’s time outdoors is best when temperatures drop.

Winter Weather Safety for Cats

While there are many good reasons to keep your cat indoors year-round, it’s extra critical during the winter. But if you’re caring for an outdoor, stray, or feral cat, provide insulated shelter for them. You can purchase winter cat shelters at pet retailers or learn how to build a DIY outdoor winter cat shelter here.

During the winter, outdoor cats have also been known to seek warmth by climbing into car engines, so make it a habit to knock on your hood and/or honk the horn before starting your engine.

Winter Weather Safety for Dogs

While dogs still need regular walks during the winter, some pup parents may need to modify their walking times and routes to limit exposure to cold weather, snow, frozen ponds, and other winter hazards. With fewer daylight hours, you’ll want to ensure your dog is visible on those early morning or evening walks with a reflective collar, leash, or some attachable lights.

Depending on the weather in your area, consider outfitting your dog with some cold-weather gear, like a dog winter jacket. Think about your dog’s breed and coat type when determining their level of weather tolerance and jacket requirements. For instance, a Siberian Husky can handle colder temperatures than a Chihuahua!

Regardless of your dog’s breed or how well they are bundled up, their time outdoors should be limited when temperatures drop to freezing levels or below. Talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s unique cold tolerance and winter needs.

Winter Paw Protection

If you live in a snowy climate, you may also want to consider some paw protection for your pet when they go outdoors during the winter, particularly when walking your dog. Besides the risk of frostbite or slipping on icy surfaces, a dog’s paws can come into contact with various chemicals or irritants on walks, including antifreeze, de-icing agents, and salt.

Dog winter boots can help with traction on icy sidewalks, keep paws warm in frigid temperatures, and offer protection from any chemicals or irritants on the ground. Ensure the right fit for your pet and check your dog’s paws frequently for any signs of discomfort.

If you’re not using any paw protection, it’s a good idea to routinely clean your dog’s paws after walks and trim the fur around their toes (if they have long hair) to help keep their paws clean and dry.

Antifreeze Dangers

Ethylene glycol, commonly known as antifreeze, is extremely toxic to pets. Unfortunately, in the winter, antifreeze can be found on streets, sidewalks, parking lots, and driveways. It often leaks from cars and snowplows or is even spilled by car owners when they replenish engine fluids.

If ingested, even in small quantities, antifreeze can have serious and even fatal effects on cats and dogs. Pets frequently consume antifreeze by licking it off the ground or licking their paws after stepping in it. Protect your pet and be precautious against antifreeze poisoning by keeping cats indoors, keeping dogs leashed and supervised on walks, and cleaning up any antifreeze spills around the house right away. If your suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze or shows signs of antifreeze poisoning, such as disorientation, vomiting, and lethargy, seek veterinary care immediately!

Winter Hazards in the Home

Though indoors may be the safest place for your pet during the winter, hazards are still lurking around your home. You may view a fireplace as cozy and every decoration as joyful, but to a pet, they can lead to serious issues. Here are a few things to remember to keep your pet safe, even at home.

Keeping Pets Safe Around Heaters

As the temperatures outside drop, many people turn to space heaters, fireplaces, and electric blankets to keep warm at home. Unfortunately, these can become hazards for pets who are also seeking warmth.

When using your fireplace, ensure a protective cover is in place to keep sparks at bay and prevent a curious dog or cat from getting too close and singeing their whiskers. A general rule is to keep them out of reach of pets as these can present burn or fire risks if pets knock them over.

Lastly, electric blankets should never be left unattended with pets around. These can also cause burns or electric shocks if your pet claws or chews on the wires. The safest option to help keep your pet warm and cozy is pet-safe warming blankets, which are available at most pet retailers.

Beating Pet Boredom in the Winter

With the chilly temperatures and less daylight, it’s not uncommon for pets to get less outdoor time and exercise. Too much indoor time can lead to pet boredom, resulting in behaviors such as chewing, digging, or trying to escape.

Keeping your pet mentally stimulated and physically engaged can help prevent these behaviors. Give them access to plenty of activities and treat puzzles, interactive toys, lick-mats, snuffle mats, and other enrichment tools. Also, try to carve out some time each day for indoor play sessions.

Avoiding Holiday Hazards

Winter festivities can present pet hazards. Use caution with holiday decorations around pets, especially glass ornaments, lights, and anything involving string. Common holiday foods and treats can also present risks, including choking and gastrointestinal blockages from turkey bones.

Meanwhile, beloved holiday treats, fine for most humans, can be toxic to pets, such as items including chocolate, raisins, and other ingredients. Let’s not forget that plants and flowers, such as holly, mistletoe, lilies, and chrysanthemums, can also be toxic. Play it safe during the holidays by keeping dangerous foods and plants out of your pet’s reach!

Hosting holiday parties or entertaining guests can be stressful for some pets. Ensure they have a safe, comfortable space to retreat to when they need a break from the noise and people, especially if there’s loud music, holiday poppers, or fireworks. During the holidays, pets can easily slip out unnoticed, with doors constantly opening as guests come and go. Use barriers, such as pet gates, warn your holiday guests that you have pets, or keep pets secured in a separate room to prevent escape.

Final Winter Safety Tips for Pets

While winter can be fun for pets, especially those who enjoy playing in the snow, keeping pet safety in mind is vital.

To be prepared in case your pet decides to go dashing through the snow or digging into the holiday treat table — make sure they have current ID tags and microchips and keep contact information for the nearest emergency vet, pet poison control, and your pet insurance provider handy.

For extra peace of mind during winter and beyond, you can also protect your pet with a Lifetime Protection Membership from 24Petwatch. You’ll have access to a vet telehealth service for pet health questions, discounts on pet-sitting and dog-walking services, and lost pet recovery specialists standing by to assist should your pet ever wander off.

24Petwatch has already helped reunite over 730,000 lost pets and will be there for yours too!