How to look after dogs, cats and other pets in cold weather

Many parts of the UK have experienced cold and snowy weather this winter.

Like humans, pets may need extra help to stay warm and safe in very cold conditions.

Like humans, animals can be at risk of hypothermia if they get too cold.

The RSPCA says pets can shiver when exposed to low temperatures for too long. This is more noticeable in smaller, short-haired breeds.

Veterinary charity PDSA recommends giving dogs and cats extra blankets for their bedding during the winter months and adding a few more areas around the house where they can curl up.

Raising their beds off the ground can keep older dogs out of drafts, while cats may like to play or rest in high caves or climbing poles.

Experts recommend extra playtime to keep pets who spend less time outdoors active. Indoor toys can help.

Your pet may want to eat more to help keep his body temperature up.

They may also want to drink less, but make sure they have constant access to fresh drinking water to avoid the risk of dehydration.

Dogs still need walks in cold weather.

Usually their fur keeps them warm. But some dogs (especially short-haired ones) may need extra help staying warm outside.

According to Gemma Renwick from the PDSA, “For most dogs, their own nice fur coat provides sufficient insulation, but those with thin fur or those who are in poor condition, very old or young, may benefit from a good winter coat.”

“Look for something snug, waterproof but with a comfortable lining.”

Walk your dog during the day if you can, or if you must go out in the dark, consider using LED collars or high-visibility leads to ensure they can be seen.

Be careful when leading dogs off the road in the snow and supervise them closely as dangers may be lurking. Similarly, keep your pets away from frozen water as ice on ponds and lakes may be thin and may not support their weight.

As temperatures drop, plan shorter, more frequent walks instead of daily long-distance walks, and if your dog gets wet, be sure to dry him with a towel as soon as you get home.

Any buildup of salt, sand, dirt or snow can be painful, so owners should check and wash their pets’ paws.

Smaller pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs and ferrets can also feel the cold.

PDSA says a sudden drop in temperatures can be a shock to the system for animals and recommends moving them indoors if they are living in outdoor kennels.

A shed or carport can provide good protection against drafts, rain or snow.

If you must bring your animals indoors, try putting them in a room that can keep them a little cooler than the rest of your home. If possible, turn off radiators.

If indoors isn’t an option, the charity recommends placing a thick blanket or piece of carpet over their outdoor living area to help keep them warm.

Many cats spend most of their time exploring the outdoors.

Experts say cats who are used to going outside during the day should continue to do so.

But the PDSA recommends that they should be able to easily get inside through the cat flap or have a warm outside shelter they can go to whenever they want.

Ideally, the cast should remain inside overnight in very cold weather.

The charity also recommends providing litter trays inside so your cat has a warm toilet option, even if they usually go outside.

Hens and hens are incredibly hardy and can generally handle some cold weather well. British Chicken Welfare Trust he says.

But under extreme circumstances the charity recommends:

• Making sure your birds have solid shelter and chicken coops are insulated
• For larger coops, place a cardboard box on the side for your chickens to sleep in.
• Checking water supplies regularly to make sure they are not freezing
• Checking boundaries regularly to ensure they are safe from predators. In wet weather fence posts may loosen and allow foxes or badgers access to eastern animals