How To Care For Your Pets In Winter

We all have to be a little more alert during the winter months as there are more hazards than usual to content with. From freezing weather to hidden hazards, the young and old need to be extra careful during winter. Pets also need a little extra care during the winter months to make sure they are safe from hazards and dangers that might not be present year round.

Horses

Horses are hardy animals and they grow an extra layer of hair during the autumn months to help them cope with the harsh conditions. Try to limit grooming in the winter months to keep your horse's coat intact. If they are outside, you will need to make sure they have access to a shelter to protect them from the harshest elements. You will also need to make sure they always have access to water, which can freeze over when the temperature drops.

Rabbits

If your rabbit doesn’t have a thick coat, or if it is young or thin, it might need some extra help during the winter. You should make sure your rabbit’s hutch isn’t leaking anywhere and add an extra layer of insulation to the top and sides. Give your rabbit extra clump of bedding so they can create a warm bed for themselves. Damp from below can also present a problem, so make sure the hutch is sufficiently raised from the ground to prevent rising damp. Don’t forget that exhaust fumes can be deadly to your small pets, so be cautious about keeping them in a garage with your car.

Cats

If you have an indoor cat, your only concern will be making sure your cat has access to the toastiest spot in the house. For outdoor cats, it can be a little tricky to convince them to stay indoors during the harshest weather, so make sure there is plenty of stimulation indoors. Cats are notorious for hiding under cars and even in warm wheel wells, so be careful before starting your car in winter.

Dogs

When walking your dog in winter, you should be careful when walking in low light. Switch your dog’s collar or harness for something reflective and make sure you’re also wearing something bright and reflective. Just like in summer, you should also never leave your dog in a car unattended in winter. The temperature in your car can quickly drop and lead to hypothermia in minutes.