Winter is a magical time, but it also brings its own set of problems that pet owners need to deal with to keep their furry companions safe. When it gets cold and snowy outside, it's important to know some practical pet safety tips for winter to ensure safety during the season. A proactive approach to winter pet safety will help you and your pet enjoy the colder months with confidence and comfort, whether you're walking on ice or making sure your pet stays warm and hydrated indoors.
Limit Time Outside
Are you wondering, "Do dogs get cold outside?" — The short answer is yes! If you start to feel cold and shiver after being outside for a while, it's definitely too chilly for your pet to remain outside for longer periods of time. Pets can get hypothermia and frostbite just like humans can when they are outside in freezing weather for too long. The best way to keep them safe is to only let them go outside for bathroom breaks or short walks during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Walk With a Leash
When water freezes over, it can look like a fun playground for your pet, but it can also be very dangerous. If you live near bodies of water that may have frozen, make sure to walk your pet on a leash. A leash is an important tenet of pet safety during the winter season, as it can keep them from wandering off and finding a frozen pond to run on.
Use Paw Balm to Protect Against Salt
Pet safety in the winter season requires extra precautions in guarding your pet's paws. De-icing chemicals in ice melt and salt commonly applied to sidewalks and streets can cause your pet chemical burns and cracked paw pads. To prevent this, start by applying a paw balm or wax prior to venturing outdoors to create a barrier that shields their sensitive pads from irritating substances. You might want to take the extra step of booting your pet for extra protection. Booties can also be used to keep their paws warm.
After each walk, bathe your pet's paws in warm water to get rid of chemicals or salt that might have stuck to them. Gently dry their paws to avoid causing irritation. Examine them on a regular basis for wear and tear or cracking, and apply wax or balm to their paws to make them healthy and strong throughout winter.
Keep Cats Inside
When temperatures plummet, it's important to limit a cat's outdoor activities just like you would with dogs. While some cats may prefer to spend time outside, if it gets too cold, you should bring them inside. Otherwise, your cat might seek shelter in hazardous locations, such as under a car hood, where they will get hurt.
So, if you are wondering how to keep outdoor cats warm in the winter but still give them the freedom to do their own thing, try setting up a warm and cozy place just for them. You can make your pets a wonderful spot using outdoor cat shelters for winter or even dog igloos with heating pads to create a warm and secure haven. This arrangement enables your cat to spend some time outside without risking their safety in the winter.
Consider Winter Wear for Your Pets
There are all kinds of pet coats and other winter products available. If your pet doesn't mind wearing clothing, consider purchasing a winter coat to keep them warm. There are also pet booties that can help keep paws warm and free of debris, such as road salt and ice. Explore some of our favorite winter clothes for pets here.
While winter comes with adventures, it also presents challenges. So, maintaining the safety and comfort of your pets should be your top priority. By following these winter pet safety tips and being aware of their unique needs, you can make sure they stay safe all winter long. It's well worth the effort to learn how to keep outside cats warm in the winter months with shelters that hold in the heat and to make sure your dog's paws don't come in contact with de-icing chemicals. It is these sorts of things that keep pets happy and healthy, people interacting, and everyone having a wonderful time during the season.
This post was originally published in February 2020 but was updated in January 2025.
