As a vigorous cold front continues to hit Australia, bitter cold and numbing wetness are forecasted across the country. Such wet and windy climatic weather can be just as dangerous for pets as it is for humans.
Taking extra care during the winter will keep your four-legged family members safe and comfy. Follow these simple suggestions to keep your pets happy and healthy during the winter months:
- Keep your pets indoors
Never leave your pets outdoors in cold weather as it can cause frostbite and hypothermia. Pets are vulnerable to extreme cold and exposed skin on the nose, ears, and paw pads can freeze fast.
- Clean the paws regularly
If you take your dog out, wipe their paws frequently with a damp towel since ice-melting chemicals might be harmful to them. If ingested, these chemicals may result in irritations, seizures, and death.
- Don’t shave down to the skin
Fur is meant to protect your cat or dog from cold spells. So, it is not recommended to shave their fur down to the skin. If your pet has very long hair, simply trim it.
- Add an extra layer
Sweaters and jackets are just as important for your pet as they are for you. Adding an extra layer can keep them warm and save them from low temperatures. Remember, even if your pet stays indoors, they may catch cold.
- Don’t keep them confined
Keep your pets indoors during extreme weather conditions. However, taking them for a walk is necessary to relieve them. Watch out for a stable climate and take them out for a walk. Make sure they’re in their booties when you take them out as snowflakes might cause bleeding in their feet.
- Be careful with the automobiles
Pets, particularly cats, may be drawn to warm car engines in cold and harsh temperatures. To avoid injuring these creatures, always blow your horn before starting the car. Also, do not keep pets unattended in the car for longer periods.
- Give your pets food, water, and medications regularly
Be sure your pets have access to clean drinking water at all times. You can use plastic bowls for food and water rather than metal to prevent your pet’s tongue from sticking and freezing to it. Also, do not forget to provide nutritious, healthy pet food as they need more meals in winter because keeping warm depletes energy.
Wind chills bring many threats and we may forget some of our routines in such a scenario. But, never forget your daily or monthly medications. Always keep them up-to-date with their flea, tick, and worm treatments. If you have any senior pets, they may experience joint aches and stiffness during cold. Consider giving them joint supplements to make them feel better.
Keep these basic points in mind and keep animals safe and comfortable when the temperatures drop.
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