In winter, you must pay special attention to your animals.
Although cats and dogs have a natural resistance to cold, not all breeds are equal!
Often accustomed to well-heated interiors, all animals do not experience the winter period in the same way.
Adapted diet, vaccination, appropriate care, find out how to take care of your animal during winter and avoid large veterinary expenses.
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Why take care of your pet in winter?
Although animals have a natural resistance to cold, not all breeds are equal.
Indeed, a husky type dog or one with long hair will be much more robust than a small chihuahua: their thick coat prevents their body temperature from dropping.
Likewise, large dogs are more resistant to falling temperatures, because they are less exposed to the cold of the ground.
Just like cats with a thicker undercoat.
Be careful though, several parameters can alter your pet's resistance during the winter.
The metabolism will have more difficulty regulating itself in an animal that is old, overweight or suffering from a chronic illness.
Did you know ?
Damp cold is the enemy of your animals.
In case of rain or snow, it is important to ensure that your dogs and cats' coats are thoroughly dried.
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How to protect your pet from the cold?
The first instinct is to observe your pet's ability to adapt to the cold.
If your dog doesn't tolerate the cold well and likes to spend his days snuggled up next to the fireplace, equipping him with a coat is a solution.
For example, wearing clothing is recommended for short-haired and small dogs (Dalmatian, Greyhound, Yorkshire, etc.).
Please note that there are also coats suitable for cats, even if felines appreciate this accessory less.
This remains a good option if you own a hairless Sphynx or Donskoy cat!
Covering your pet when going out is certainly recommended in certain cases, but the main thing lies in adapting its daily life.
Physical activity in animals is essential, even in winter.
But when temperatures drop, we advise you to reduce the time spent on walks, for example.
For cats, avoid going out at the end of the day at the risk of seeing them spend the night outside.
Again, this of course depends on the breed of your pet and its physical condition.
Please note: it is crucial to provide a place sheltered from the cold and wind so that your dog or cat can rest and warm up.
Also be sure to give it plenty of water and a richer adaptation during severe cold periods.
What are the risks of cold in animals?
As with humans, winter is conducive to viruses and illnesses in animals.
There are several winter diseases in cats and dogs, the most common of which are:
Feline coryza: a contagious respiratory condition in cats leading to serious consequences if left untreated
Arthritis: cold aggravates joint problems in cats and dogs, especially in older animals
Hypothermia
Frostbite: The paws of dogs and cats are sensitive to frozen and snowy ground.
Remember to dry your pets' paws well and limit the hours spent outside.
To take care of your pet during winter, it is essential to take care of its environment and be attentive to signs of discomfort.
Prevention is the key to good health in your dog or cat: take your pet to the veterinarian to update its vaccinations and receive appropriate advice before winter.
And to reduce your veterinary costs: consider animal health insurance.
For a few euros per month, you benefit from reimbursement of your dog or cat's health expenses.
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