Cold Weather and Pets

Feb 2, 2023

Canada is notorious for its cold climate, and pets are not excluded from the effects of frigid temperatures, snow, and other weather-related issues. Winter is a challenging time for pet owners, as the cold weather and harsh conditions can pose a threat to the health and well-being of our furry friends. However, with a few simple precautions, you can keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout the winter months.

Protection and Exercise

While dog and cat haircoats may provide some protection against cold weather, in many cases this is not sufficient to protect from the elements. In addition, tails, ear tips, and toes are not well insulated and are very prone to frostbite. If the weather is too cold, windy, or otherwise difficult for you to spend a prolonged period of time outdoors, the same is likely due of pets. Make sure to monitor animals outdoors for signs of distress or discomfort, and keep exercise periods brief. However, your pet should remain active despite cold weather. Regular exercise is important for your pet's physical and mental well-being. Take your dog for a walk or play with your cat to keep them active, just ensure they are not also becoming too cold or wet. Sweaters and coats can help to extend the period of time spent outside, especially in shorter haired breeds or those with little body fat (for example, sighthounds).

Road Salt

There are several factors associated with winter that may also play a role in pet health. The salt used for roads and sidewalks may become trapped between a dog’s toes and result in paw irritation and inflammation. Carefully washing feet, using dog-safe salts, and considering “booties’ or other protection can minimize the risk of foot trauma. In animals with longer fur on the paws, small ice balls may also form between toes and lead to moisture trapping and irritation. Soaking paws in warm water will help dislodge and melt these.

Ice

Ice may pose a threat to pets for several reasons. Dogs running or playing may slip and fall and, just like in humans, this can cause soft tissue injury and broken bones. Frozen ponds and lakes may not be able to support the weight of dogs and falling through into frigid water is a common situation that is often fatal. Never allow a dog to run on ice you would not trust to support your own weight.

Cars

While cars can provide some protection form the environment, they can become very cold, especially if left for long periods of time. While Nordic breeds may be comfortable in these temperatures, older, sick, thin furred, or low body fat animals may not tolerate this well.

Heat

When offering sources of heat, be careful to avoid complications. Heating pads and blankets may keep pets warm, but if they fall asleep on an unprotected heat source this may result in thermal burns, even at fairly low temperatures. Likewise, animals left unattended with heaters may knock them over or otherwise predispose to a fire.

Outdoor Animals

Animals housed outdoors require specific precautions in the winter. A warm shelter to provide protection from the elements is essential. Even animals with heavy coats who may be well suited to winter environments require protection and specific care. A windbreak, clean bedding, and a dry area are required. These animals also require a source of water which will not freeze. A horse trough-heater, pond heater, insulated bowl, or similar can maintain a water source for outdoor animals. Avoid metal bowls, as they may result in tongue trauma.

Feral or Outdoor Cats

Feral or outdoor cats face specific threats in the winter. There is abundant information online about constructing insulted shelters to help maintain these animals, however in many cases they will seek out heat sources. Feral or outdoor cats will often find their way under the hood of carts to rest in the warm, sheltered area. Inadvertently starting the car with the cat inside may result in significant injury or death from fan-belts and other components. Knocking on the hood or making other loud noises before starting the engine will help to startle these animals away and avoid serious injury.

Toxins

Some toxins are more common in the winter months, and care should be taken to ensure animals are not exposed. Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is more commonly used in cold weather and is extremely toxic to both dogs and cats (though dogs exposed are more often). Rodents moving indoors to avoid the cold may prompt more use of rodenticide, which may also be toxic to pets.

Holiday Risks

The holiday seasons that occur in the winter months are also a significant risk to pets.

Decorations: Tinsel, ribbon, and other decorations can be very tempting for pets to play with, but they can also be dangerous if ingested. Tinsel, in particular, can cause blockages in a pet's digestive system that can be life-threatening. Keep decorations out of reach of pets and supervise them closely when they are around.

Christmas Trees: Christmas trees can also pose a danger to pets. Make sure your tree is securely anchored so it doesn't tip over and keep curious pets away from the water in the tree stand, which can contain fertilizers and bacteria.

Food: Many of the foods we enjoy during the holiday season can be dangerous for pets. Chocolate, for example, can be toxic to dogs and cats, and fatty foods can cause pancreatitis. Keep treats and snacks out of pets’ reach and ensure they don’t have access to the dinner table.

Gifts: Wrapping paper and bows can be irresistible to pets, but they can also be dangerous if ingested. Keep gifts out of reach until they are opened and dispose of wrapping materials properly.

Fire: Christmas lights and candles can pose a fire hazard. Keep cords and decorations away from pets and make sure to extinguish candles and turn off lights when you’re not home or when you’re sleeping.

Spring

As winter turns to spring, be aware of new risks. Spring can bring a variety of risks to pets, including exposure to parasites such as fleas and ticks, as well as potential poisoning from plants that are toxic to animals. Warmer weather also means an increase in outdoor activities, which can lead to a greater chance of pets getting lost or injured. Additionally, spring is a common time for storms and severe weather, which can be dangerous for pets if they are not properly secured. Owners should also be aware of any seasonal allergies their pets may have and take steps to mitigate any symptoms.

Following these simple guidelines can help ensure your pet stays safe and healthy throughout the winter months. Remember, consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your pet's health.

References

Winter safety tips - PubMed. (n.d.). Retrieved January 10, 2023, from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23710521/

Swaim, S. F. (1980). Trauma to the skin and subcutaneous tissues of dogs and cats. The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Small Animal Practice, 10(3), 599–618. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0195-5616(80)50057-4

Ahlstrøm, Ø., Redman, P., & Speakman, J. (2011). Energy expenditure and water turnover in hunting dogs in winter conditions. The British Journal of Nutrition, 106 Suppl 1. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0007114511001838

Author

Matthew Kornya, BSc, DVM, ABVP (Feline) Residency Trained, Resident ACVIM (SAIM)
Consulting Editor

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