Winter is just around the corner, which means the days are getting shorter and the temperature is getting cooler! As much as we all love snuggling up next to the heater on a cold winter's day, it is important to remember that cold weather brings an array of health concerns for our pets including parasites, weight gain, arthritis and dry skin.
Even with those warm fur coats, our pets can feel the cold just as much as we do so it is important you have all the essentials to keep your pet warm and cosy during the cooler months. We’ve got you covered with all the essentials to keep your furry friend warm, cosy and healthy during the cold season.
Warm and cosy beds
As the temperature gets cooler, your pet will be spending more time in their bed, making it even more important to ensure they have a warm and comfortable bed. There are various winter-style beds available that have plush and fur covers, providing your pet instant warmth. If you have a cat or smaller dog, you might like to try an Igloo which provides a space for your pet to hide and sleep. If you have a dog that is prone to arthritis or joint pain, there are various orthopaedic beds available to provide additional support. If your pet sleeps outside, make sure they have a warm place to sleep such as a kennel. You may like to add a mat or blanket inside for extra warmth.
Winter coats and pyjamas
Although many pets have a nice thick coat to keep them warm, they can benefit by wearing a coat in winter. Providing your pet a warm coat or jumper will not only look super cute, but help to regulate body temperature. There are various styles of coats and jumpers that will provide your pet coverage from their neck to the base of their tail. Coats are particularly useful for short coat breeds, puppies and older dogs. We have over 50 varieties of winter coats to choose from, so you will be sure to find the perfect fit!
Joint care
Cold weather can cause arthritis and joint pain issues to flare up, making the winter months harder for older pets. The drop in temperature can aggravate joints significantly, causing stiffness, walking difficulty and other behavioural changes. If you notice any signs of arthritis or discomfort, we highly recommend taking your pet to the vet for a checkup. The good news is, arthritis and joint pain can be managed. We recommend keeping a healthy exercise regime for your pet, ensuring they have a supportive bed, and feeding a mobility-specific diet.
There are also various joint supplements available that are designed to improve joint health and function in pets. These chews contain ingredients such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin to provide cartilage nutrition for joint cartilage health and joint function. When fed daily, these supplements encourage healthy joints and reduce stiffness.
Stay active
As the temperature gets cooler and the days get shorter, it can be hard to find the motivation to go out for a walk with your pooch. Although it can be tempting to stay indoors, snuggled under a warm blanket, it is important to continue your pet’s exercise regime to keep them warm and healthy and prevent any extra winter kilos. Exercise is not only important for weight control, but also helps with boredom stimulation and to give your dog their daily dose of Vitamin D. So brave the cold, grab a lead and head out for a walk. If you have an indoor pet, be sure to include some indoor play with their favourite toys to get their blood moving!
Grooming
It is common for pet parents to grow their pet’s coat over winter in an attempt to try and keep them warm. While this can help with temperature regulation, it is important to maintain brushing and keep the coat well-maintained and groomed, as long fur can become matted and lead to skin problems. We recommend brushing regularly and keeping on top of parasite protection to avoid any unwanted skin irritations. It is also recommended to use a moisturising shampoo and conditioner when bathing your pet.
We hope these tips help keep your furry friend warm, comfortable, healthy and happy during the cooler months. Pets are part of the family, so be sure to snuggle up and stay warm together this winter. After all, there is nothing like cuddles to keep the winter blues at bay!
