It’s getting very chilly outside and you start bundling up to keep warm. Don’t forget about your pets, they may have fur, but they get cold too. Even if the temperatures do not drop below freezing, you should take some precautions to protect them form the cold weather.
What You Should Do
The Louisiana SPCA recommends to keep your pets indoors during the cold weather. If you cannot bring them inside, make sure they are protected from winds and low temperatures while outside. Keep in mind that puppies, kittens and older pets are extremely sensitive to the cold. Outdoor pets use more energy to keep warm so they will need more food when it’s cold. Routinely check your pet’s water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Pets exposed to freezing temperatures for long periods of time can develop frostbite on their feet or the tips of their ears. You should watch for skin turning dark, lethargy, or weakness, as those could be symptoms your pet has been adversely affected by cold weather. Also remember not to leave your pets unattended around gas furnaces or electric heaters. Cats tend to crawl inside car engines or hide in wheel wells for warmth. Always check your vehicle and honk your horn before starting it.