Prepare your furry friends for winter by providing sufficient, warm shelter

THE DROP in temperatures after the sun sets is an indication winter is on its way. And, just as we need shelter from the cold, we also need to make sure our pets are cared for during this time.

Many people do not understand what an animal’s coat is about.

Even though it may be plush and bushy, it is not always the perfect insulator. If your pet has less or no hair/fur, it is even more vulnerable to the cold.

I feel that if it is too cold for me outside, then it is too cold for my dogs and cats outside.

Shelter is a basic requirement for any pet that stays outside. Make sure you have a kennel that can be kept dry and draught free.

The kennel needs to be of a sufficient size for your pet to get in and out easily, and to stand up in.

Most pets love an old blanket and it is a great way to keep them warm. Use one or more blankets inside the kennel to provide some insulation. This is especially important for older arthritic animals.

Cold, damp weather aggravates arthritis in cats and dogs. If your pet is having trouble getting up or lying down, is crying when picked up, rather take him/her to see the vet as many new arthritis treatments are available.

Using a doggie jersey can be a good idea, but depends on how tolerant your pet is.

Cats will probably not appreciate being dressed up and usually prefer to seek warm places to sit or sleep.

Having a little cat house or enclosed basket will hopefully prevent the cats from seeking warmth elsewhere, like under the bonnet of a car!

But if your cat likes to sleep in the car, ensure you give the bonnet a bang before starting the ignition as you can unintentionally hurt or kill your cat if it is there.

Antifreeze is also a real threat to our pets. They are attracted to its sweet smell and taste and will often sample it if left out or spilt. But it is highly toxic so do store it safely.

Outdoor pets need to have extra food to help keep up their strength – not so much that they become obese but enough to help them generate the extra body heat they need in the winter.

Cats that go outside to toilet may be less willing to do so in the colder months, especially if we have had ground frost and the ground is hard and cold.

It is an idea to give them the option of a litter tray in a “private spot” in the house.

Continue to walk your pet during winter weather. The exercise will help keep their circulation up and increase their stamina.

As always, exercise is important.

Winter weather can be harsh and lower an animal’s resistance to disease.

If your pet seems ill or out of sorts, rather take him/her to the vet for a check-up.

It doesn’t take too much to keep our pets safe and warm when things start to get a little chilly. If we can do things to keep ourselves warmer in winter, we can take the time to make sure our furry friends are just as well protected.