After a long, warm summer, the first chilly morning can catch any of us by surprise. While some dogs and cats seem perfectly happy when the temperature drops, others are much more sensitive to cooler weather. A little preparation can help keep your pets comfortable and safe as summer turns to fall and fall turns to winter.
Know your pet’s cold weather tolerance
Not every animal responds to cold in the same way. Small dogs, short-haired breeds, puppies, senior pets and cats, too, may become uncomfortable sooner than larger, thick coated dogs, especially if they spend time outdoors.
Pay attention to their behavior. Shivering is an obvious sign that a pet is cold, but it’s not the only one. Your pet may seek out warm places, become reluctant to go outside, lift their paws, tuck its tail, or appear anxious or uncomfortable. If your pet seems unusually weak, confused, excessively sleepy, or has difficulty walking after being exposed to cold, seek veterinary attention promptly. Remember that cooler temperatures can also make stiffness and discomfort more noticeable in pets with joint disease.
Don’t forget about paws
Wet leaves, mud, ice, and other outdoor debris can irritate your pet’s feet. After walks, take a moment to check between the toes and around the paw pads. Wipe paws clean and dry when necessary. This is also a good opportunity to check for small cuts, cracks, burrs, or other irritants that may have become lodged in the fur.
Cooler weather also doesn’t mean an end to fleas and ticks. Especially here in South Carolina, these parasites can remain active well into fall and even during portions of winter. Although flea outdoor activity can decrease as temperatures fall, homes provide a warm environment where fleas can continue reproducing. Flea eggs and immature stages can be present in carpeting, furniture, bedding and other areas where pets spend time.
Ticks are members of the arachnid family, just like spiders and mites. Their activity is influenced by temperature and environmental conditions rather than simply the changing of the seasons. A stretch of warm weather in fall can provide opportunities for ticks to become active. A few minutes spent on prevention can help keep your pet safe from uncomfortable bites and reduce the risk of diseases that can affect both animals and people.
Be careful around antifreeze
One of the most important cold-weather precautions involves a substance that has nothing to do with keeping your pet warm. Antifreeze can be extremely toxic to dogs and cats, and even a small amount can cause life-threatening poisoning. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to antifreeze, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary hospital right away.
The first cold snap is a good reminder that our pets depend on us to notice when the seasons change. With a warm place to rest, sensible outdoor precautions, and a little extra attention, you can help your sweet fur baby enjoy the cooler months comfortably and safely.
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