Stiff Joints!

Preparing Pets for Winter

Cold Weather Precautions for Pets by Nadia Crighton

As temperatures begin to drop, it’s time to consider the necessary measures to ensure our beloved pets remain warm and dry during the impending winter season.

Adapting to Winter

Winter’s arrival signals the need to provide additional warmth and care for our furry companions. While many pets transition smoothly through seasonal changes, some require extra attention as the cold weather approaches.

Addressing Needs of Older Pets

Older pets often struggle with the cooler weather. Take, for instance, my 17-year-old cat Rupert, who detests toileting outside in the frosty mornings. To accommodate his preferences, we’ve placed a litter box in the shower, bypassing the need for waterproof booties.

Some older pets may exhibit signs of arthritis and stiffness during colder seasons. It’s crucial to ensure their warmth by placing beds in sunlight, adding extra blankets, and considering dog coats or heat pads for cats on chilly nights. While attempting to dress a cat in a coat might be amusing, it’s more practical to utilize heat pads or move their bedding into sunlit areas.

Winter Care for Heavy-Coated Pets

Pets with thick coats tend to cope well in winter, but grooming is vital to prevent matting. Regular grooming sessions, at least once a week, using specialized combs can prevent painful matting issues.

Comfortable Environment for Pets

Elevate your pet’s bed off cold surfaces, especially if they sleep on tiles or wooden floors. Opt for trampoline beds and avoid using wheat bags or hot water bottles, which could cause burns.

Consider suitable dog coats for added warmth. Ensure they fit properly and aren’t too tight or loose. Additionally, encourage hydration during winter by adding warm stock or a teaspoon of vegemite to their meals, providing both warmth and moisture.

Embrace Winter Snuggles!

Winter brings the joy of cozy moments with purring hot water bottles and the comfort of snoring feet cuddles. Enjoy these heartwarming moments with your furry companions!

What is arthritis?

It’s the wear and tear of the joints as your animal ages. There are other forms of arthritis that can also affect younger pets. But the most common is caused by old age and use. As dogs and cats get older the cartilage surfaces of their joints begin to thin and the cartilage cells die. This causes inflation and discomfort in the joint.

Symptoms:

• Sore stiff joints
• Reluctance to run or jump
• Pain in the joint when moving or jumping
• Constant licking of the joints
• Groaning, yelping when moving
• Groaning when lying down
• Pacing

Treatment

• Prescribed arthritic pain relief
• Comfortable supportive bedding – trampoline beds are great
• Limit your animals jumping from high areas to stop the degeneration of the joints
• Good diet
• Keeping your animal at the correct weight
• Holistic and complementary supplements and treatments

We offer award-winning* pet insurance policies to protect your furry friend’s health and wellbeing. Get a quote today and give your pets the care they deserve.