Did you know that your pet can get the winter blues just like you? You know what I’m talking about. The depression from fewer hours of sunlight and outdoor time, the possible weight gain from curling up with one too many hot chocolates and the lack of social interaction because going outside can take a lot of work. All of these can be the same for our pets.
It’s not as easy for outdoor cats to go out in the winter for multiple reasons, the most important one being cold. They are not built to withstand freezing temperatures so their time outside should be limited. Two other reasons they would be unhappy out is, high volumes of snow can hinder their ability to get around and less “prey” to chase and follow for entertainment. Outdoor cats that are confined inside for long periods of time can become bored and depressed. You should keep many toys around, and you must play with them to get them to engage.
A treat ball could be something they would enjoy, so they are getting a reward while they’re playing. You can also use these to feed them their meals, and it keeps them active, so they’re not putting on weight from being less active.
For dogs who are used to going hiking, swimming and for long walks the winter can be harsh if they don’t have an owner who enjoys those things all year round. Walks become shorter, hiking only happens if there isn’t a lot of snow or ice around and swimming has become skidding on ice wondering where their precious water went! Engaging with your dog inside will be very important. Puzzle games are the best for these situations as they exercise the mind and mental exhaustion is just as important as physical exhaustion. When it’s safe, having dogs outside with you while you’re shovelling can be lots of fun as they tend to enjoy chasing the snow you’re throwing. Going on walks shouldn’t stop in the winter, but taking precautions to ensure yours and your dog’s warmth is essential. If you’re bundling up in a jacket, hat, mitts and scarf, chances are your dog should at least have a coat on.
There are many options of coats for dogs, and most pet stores allow dogs inside so you can check measurements to see if they fit works, or if you’re an online shopper there are sizing charts you can use to determine what would work best. Booties are also options. The salt and ice on the roads can hurt your pups feet so keeping them protected and warm will make their walk more enjoyable. Again, sizing is critical, so pay attention to how they fit your dog and if they’re sliding off.
Bottom line, some people LOVE winter, and some do not. Some pets LOVE winter, and some do not. Whether you love it or hate it, it’s still important to keep active and remember that our pets need activity in their lives and if in the warmer months they’re outside all the time, you need to do your best to keep them as active as possible when outside is not so pet-friendly.
Written by Gill Peters, CCS
