Common Winter Health Issues in Pets
January is typically the coldest month in Texas, and while our cats and dogs wear furry coats, they can still feel the chill when temperatures dip, particularly if they’re senior pets or if they have other medical conditions. In this blog, we take a look at winter health issues pets commonly face and provide tips for protecting your four-legged family members with proper winter pet care.
Watch for Signs of These Common Winter Illnesses
Hypothermia/frostbite: Pets have varying degrees of tolerance to colder temps based on their age, body fat, coat thickness, and overall health. If your pet starts to shiver or their ears and feet feel cold, it’s time to head inside. An animal’s risk of frostbite, which can cause permanent tissue damage, drastically increases if the animal is wet. Keep pets as dry as possible during walks, and dry their fur as soon as you get inside.
Arthritis: Lower temps and wet weather make arthritis pain and stiffness worse for pets. Make sure your pet’s favorite bed is in a toasty spot away from drafts, and limit your pet’s time outdoors.
Respiratory conditions: If you spot symptoms like the sniffles, a mild cough, and sneezing, your pet could have an upper respiratory infection. A more persistent cough accompanied by lethargy and a fever can point to pneumonia or influenza. Pets exhibiting any of these symptoms should be seen as soon as possible by a veterinarian.
Kennel cough: Winter is prime time for kennel cough due to dogs spending more time indoors in close proximity to other pets. This canine respiratory infection is caused by the bacteria Bordetella. Ask us about vaccinating your precious pooch against kennel cough.
Itchy skin: Colder, drier air can lead to skin problems in pets. Bathe dogs less frequently in winter and use lukewarm water and a moisturizing shampoo. Consider adding a humidifier close to your pet’s favorite place to sleep, and contact a veterinarian if your pet is excessively licking or scratching at their skin, or if you spot redness, swelling, or crusty patches.
Antifreeze poisoning: Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, a chemical that makes antifreeze taste sweet but is extremely toxic to pets. Clean up garage spills immediately and store antifreeze out of paw’s reach. If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze, contact us or the nearest animal emergency hospital immediately.
Flea and tick infestations: Our weather here typically doesn’t get cold enough to kill these little buggers, so don’t get lax with prevention. Cats and dogs need year-round protection from parasites in our neck of the woods.
Contact Us for Prompt At-Home Winter Pet Care
At The Vet Gal and Guys, we’re here to help you keep your pets warm and safe this winter. Please contact us at (817) 733-3011 to request a mobile veterinary visit if you spot any symptoms that concern you or if it’s time for your pet’s wellness visit.