As temperatures drop, it’s important to keep a close eye on your pets to ensure they’re safe and comfortable. Just like humans, pets can feel the cold, but they can’t tell us when they’re chilly. Recognizing the signs of coldness in pets is crucial to avoid discomfort and more serious issues like hypothermia or frostbite. Here’s how to tell if your pet is cold and what you can do to keep them warm and safe. 

Signs Your Pet is Cold

• Shivering or Trembling: One of the most obvious signs that your pet is feeling cold is shivering. Just like humans, pets will shiver when their body temperature drops in an attempt to warm up. 
• Curling Up or Tucking Paws: If your pet is constantly curling into a ball or tucking their paws under their body, they might be trying to conserve body heat. Cats, in particular, may pull their paws under themselves when they feel cold. 
• Cold Ears and Paws: Feel your pet’s ears and paws. If they are colder than usual, it’s a sign that your pet’s body temperature is dropping, and they may need to be warmed up. 
• Lethargy or Slowing Down: When pets are cold, they may become less active or slow down during walks or playtime. If your dog or cat suddenly seems sluggish or reluctant to move, it could be a sign that they are too cold. 
• Whining or Anxiety: Pets may try to vocalize their discomfort when they are cold. If your dog starts whining or showing signs of anxiety, they might be asking for warmth. Cats, though more subtle, may seek out warm places to hide or become more vocal. 
• Seeking Warm Places: If your pet is constantly gravitating toward warm spots, like sitting near heaters, curling up in blankets, or burrowing into beds, it’s a sign they are trying to stay warm. 
• Hunched Posture or Tense Muscles: Some pets will hunch their body or appear tense when they are feeling cold, as they try to minimize heat loss. 

How to Help a Cold Pet

If you notice any of the above signs, it’s time to take action to warm up your pet. For more information on frostbite, click here. Here are some practical steps to help keep your furry friend cozy and safe during cold weather: 

• Provide A Warm Home: Whether indoors or outdoors, pets need access to warm, dry shelter during cold months. Ensure your home is at a comfortable temperature for your pet, and consider providing cozy beds, blankets, or heated pet mats. Cats often like to curl up in warm spots like radiator beds or near heaters. 
• Use Pet Clothing for Dogs: While not all pets need extra layers, short-haired dogs, small breeds, puppies, and senior dogs may benefit from wearing a sweater or jacket when outdoors. Look for well-fitting clothing that covers the chest and back, but doesn’t restrict movement. For particularly cold days, consider waterproof gear to protect against rain or snow. 
• Limit Time Outdoors: Pets, especially those not suited for cold weather, should have limited exposure to frigid temperatures. For dogs, shorten walks during very cold days, and watch for signs of discomfort such as paw lifting or shivering. Cats should always remain indoors during cold months unless they have access to a safe outdoor enclosure. 
• Protect Their Paws: Cold pavement, snow, and ice can be tough on your pet’s paws. Ice melt chemicals and salt can also cause irritation or burns. To protect their paws consider using booties to shield your dog’s paws from the cold, ice, and chemicals. It may take some time for them to get used to wearing booties, but they offer great protection. If your dog isn’t comfortable with booties, paw wax is another option to create a barrier against the elements. Be sure to wipe off their paws after a walk to remove any salt or ice melt. 
• Monitor Water Intake: It’s important to ensure your pet stays hydrated, as cold weather can cause dehydration. Provide plenty of fresh water for your pet to drink. 
• Keep Them Dry: If your pet gets wet from rain or snow, dry them off immediately. Wet fur loses its insulating properties, making it much easier for your pet to get cold. After a walk, wipe down your pet’s fur, paws, and belly, and remove any snow or ice that may have accumulated. 
• Use Heating Pads (With Caution): Heated pet beds or heating pads designed specifically for pets can be a great way to provide extra warmth. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines and monitor your pet when using heating pads to avoid burns or overheating. 

Pets That Need Extra Care in Cold Weather

Some pets are more susceptible to the cold and may require extra care: 

• Senior Pets: Older dogs and cats are often more sensitive to cold weather due to decreased mobility, thinner fur, or health conditions like arthritis. 
• Short-Haired and Small Breeds: Dogs with short fur, like Greyhounds, Chihuahuas, and Whippets, or small breeds like Dachshunds, can feel the cold more quickly than larger or thick-coated dogs. 
• Puppies and Kittens: Young animals don’t have the same ability to regulate their body temperature as adult pets, so they can get cold more easily. 
• Pets with Health Issues: Pets with conditions such as hypothyroidism, heart disease, or diabetes may struggle to maintain their body temperature and require extra protection in the cold. 

Keeping your pet warm during cold weather is essential for their comfort and well-being. By recognizing the signs that your pet is cold and taking the proper steps to keep them warm, you can ensure they stay healthy and happy all winter long.