As the cooler months approach in Australia, it’s time to start preparing your home, your wardrobe, and most importantly, your pets for winter. Just like humans, animals feel the effects of the season and need a little extra care to stay healthy, warm, and comfortable. At Woonona Petfoods, we’re passionate about keeping your furry friends happy all year round. Whether you own dogs, cats, rabbits or birds, this comprehensive guide will help you make winter a safe and cozy season for them.
Understanding How Winter Affects Pets
Winter in Australia might not bring snow to every region, but the drop in temperature, shorter days, and wetter conditions can all impact your pet’s health and behaviour. Pets with short coats, small bodies, or chronic health issues are particularly vulnerable to cold weather. Dogs may become less active, cats might seek out warmer hiding places, and birds can suffer from drafts or fluctuating temperatures.
Keeping Pets Warm and Comfortable
A warm, dry environment is crucial during the winter months. For dogs and cats that live indoors, ensure they have access to cozy bedding away from cold floors or drafts. Raised pet beds, thermal blankets, or orthopedic options can all be extremely beneficial. The Snooza Snuggler Chinchilla bed is a great winter option, featuring a thick orthopaedic foam base for joint support and deep, plush sides that help trap warmth, perfect for older pets or those who like to curl up in colder weather.
Outdoor pets need extra attention. If your dog sleeps outside, their kennel should be weatherproof, elevated off the ground, and insulated. The Dog Kennel Timber Bavarian Flat Roof is an ideal option. Its raised design and slanted, weatherproof roof help protect against rain and damp ground, while the removable plastic door flap shields your dog from wind and cold. A hinged roof and removable floor make cleaning and ventilation easy, helping you maintain a dry, hygienic space through the colder months.
The Snugglesafe Microwave Heat Pads are a safe, non-electric way to add warmth to bedding for pets of all shapes and sizes. Simply heat the pad in the microwave for a few minutes, and it provides up to 10 hours of steady warmth, perfect for overnight use. They’re ideal for puppies, kittens, elderly pets, or small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs.
For birds, consider moving the cage to a warmer part of the house or covering it with a thick blanket at night to avoid sudden temperature drops.
Adjusting Your Pet’s Diet
As the weather gets colder, your pet’s energy requirements may change. Active outdoor pets might need more calories to maintain their body temperature, while more sedentary pets may require less food to avoid winter weight gain. It’s important to monitor their body condition and adjust portion sizes accordingly.
For dogs needing weight management support, Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight + Joint Support is a great option. Clinically proven to help over 70% of dogs lose weight within 10 weeks, it also includes omega-3-rich fish oil for joint health and mobility, perfect for less active dogs during the colder months.
To support coat and skin health through the drier season, consider Value Plus Omega 3, 6 and 9 Oil, a balanced fatty acid supplement designed to restore shine and reduce dryness caused by winter conditions.
Maintaining Grooming and Coat Care
Winter doesn’t mean skipping the grooming routine. In fact, regular brushing is even more important during cold weather. Dry, flaky skin is common in winter, especially when indoor heating reduces humidity levels. Brushing stimulates the skin’s natural oils, helping to keep coats shiny and free from mats. To keep your pet’s coat in top condition, we recommend using PAW Sensitive Skin Shampoo, which is specifically formulated for dogs with fragile skin. This hypoallergenic, soap-free shampoo gently cleans without stripping the natural oils, leaving a fresh scent and a shiny, healthy coat.
Bathing frequency can often be reduced in winter, but when your pet does need a wash, make sure to use lukewarm water and dry them thoroughly afterwards. Yours Droolly Dry Shampoo Coconut Oil is perfect for in-between baths, offering a quick and easy solution. Simply sprinkle it onto your pet's coat, brush or rub it in, and it cleanses the coat while removing excess oils, leaving them soft, fresh, and smelling great.
Exercise and Mental Stimulation
With colder weather and shorter days, it’s tempting to cut down on walk time or outdoor play. However, regular exercise is essential for both physical health and mental stimulation. If walking outside becomes too cold or wet, consider indoor play alternatives or short, frequent outings during daylight hours.
For pets like cats and small animals, increase the use of interactive toys, tunnels, and climbing structures. For dogs, puzzle feeders and enrichment toys can prevent boredom and associated behavioural issues.
Joint Support for Older Pets in Winter
Cold, damp conditions can aggravate arthritis in older dogs and cats. If your pet is slowing down, showing stiffness, or seems reluctant to move, it may be time to talk to your vet about supplements or treatment options. For joint support, consider Rose-Hip Vital® Canine, a 100% natural, plant-based supplement scientifically proven to manage arthritis, osteoarthritis, joint pain, and mobility issues. Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, it also boosts the immune system and improves coat quality, making it a safe and effective long-term option for dogs of all ages.
Another excellent choice is Canine Joint Plus+, a premium powdered supplement formulated to target inflammation and joint discomfort. With key ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, vitamin C, and hyaluronic acid, this Australian-made supplement helps improve mobility, reduce pain, and promote long-term joint health. It's ideal for dogs recovering from injury, those experiencing arthritis, or simply ageing pets.
Protect Your Pet from the Cold with Winter Essentials
Small breeds, puppies, and seniors may need a winter coat or jumper for outdoor walks to stay comfortable in the colder weather. When choosing a coat, look for one that fits snugly without restricting movement. At Woonona Petfoods, we offer a range of stylish and practical dog jackets for all sizes.
For indoor dogs who need extra warmth during chilly days and nights, the Pet One Dog Coat Komfy Knit Jumper is an excellent choice. Made from soft knit material, this cozy jumper is perfect for keeping your furry friend snug indoors. With hind leg straps to ensure a secure fit and machine washable fabric, it’s easy to care for while providing warmth and style.
For outdoor walks in the rain, the Kazoo Dog Coat Rainy Days in Neon Green is ideal. This lightweight, waterproof coat keeps your dog dry and comfortable during wet conditions. Featuring reflective details for added visibility and a zip-up pocket for essentials like poo bags, it’s a practical and eye-catching solution for rainy walks. It's simple design also makes it great for layering over a jumper when the weather is both wet and cold.
Winter Health Checks
Winter is an ideal time for a routine health check, as conditions like arthritis, dental issues, or respiratory problems can worsen in the colder months. If your pet is older, it's a good idea to schedule a vet check-up before the full chill of winter sets in.
Preparing your pet for winter doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple adjustments to their environment, diet, grooming, and routine, you can keep them healthy and comfortable throughout the season. As a locally owned and operated business, Woonona Petfoods understands the unique needs of Australian pet owners. We ensure our shelves are stocked with high-quality, weather-appropriate supplies to help your pets stay safe and warm. Visit us in-store for personalised advice, or shop online to have your winter essentials delivered directly to your door.
