KEEP YOUR PET WARM A cold weather guide
WITH the winter season looming we need to keep safe, warm and healthy, so do our fur babies. While a number of factors contribute to an increase in sickness in the winter season, just like humans, dogs and cats can catch a cold when the temperature drops. So, we have compiled key pointers that can help keep your four-legged companions warm during the freezing cold winter nights. Keep your pet’s shelter warm and dry While many pets live inside with their owners or pet parents, there are some who live outdoors, and during those cold winter nights, it’s ideal to bring your pooch or kitty inside. Make room for your pets somewhere safe to keep them warm. Remember even if your pet lives inside the house, don’t let them
KEDIBONE MODISE sleep on the floor. If your feet can’t handle the icy cold floors, your pet’s body won’t either. Ensure that your pet has a comfortable bed and a blanket. For pets that live outdoors, ensure that their shed or kennel is warm and windproof, add a mattress and thick blankets too. SPCA Tshwane Veterinarian, Dr Floris Kruger advised cat owners to have a clean litter box that is inside the house because if it’s too cold cats won’t go outside to use a litter box and it will lead to bladder infections. Minimise bathing in winter Bathe your pets as little as possible during winter. Washing too often removes oils and increase the chance of developing dry skin. Trim, don’t shave down
their fur coat Never shave your dog down to their skin. In winter leave their long coat as this protects them from the cold. Keep coatless cats indoors. Dress them up in sweaters and coats Some dogs may not have enough fur to keep them warm, so if your pooch doesn’t have long hair, get them a pet coat or hoodie jacket. The sweater or jacket will help to retain body heat and prevent their skin from getting dry. Make sure you get the right size coat or sweater for your pup. A tight jacket can restrict the dog’s movement and possibly cause irritations at pressure points like the back of the neck and armpits. These clothing items should not be worn inside the house as dogs can overheat easily.
