Keeping pets warm in winter

WITH winter upon us, temperatures have plummeted and it’s often icy out there. While humans can reach for extra blankets, spare a thought for your pets who may also be feeling the cold. Try these tips to keep them cosy.

DOGS & CATS

Keep pets inside. Not only can they die if left in cold and wet conditions, they can also get sick, just like humans. If you can’t bring them inside your house, use the garage ( just not while the car is running as the fumes can be deadly), a garden shed or a kennel on the stoep. Fill up their food bowls. Trying to stay warm burns up a lot of energy, which means your pet may be hungrier than usual. Clothe them – a dog jersey for smaller and/or short-haired breeds can be helpful. However, some argue this can diminish the animal’s ability to regulate their own temperature – so if unsure, check with your vet. Give them a warm sleeping place. Just like us your furry friend wants a warm place to sleep. Invest in a few blankets or a pillow and make sure their sleeping area is away from drafts. Don’t shave your pets – they need a thicker coat in the cold winter months. And if you absolutely have to bath them, make sure you dry them thoroughly.

RABBITS & GUINEA PIGS

Find the right spot. Make sure their hutch is positioned off the ground and in a sheltered spot out of the rain. Provide extra warmth by putting a blanket or tarpaulin over the hutch and give them extra bedding. Animal-friendly heating pads, which are placed under the bedding, are also an option. Make sure they have access to an outdoor run, even if it’s cold and wet, because your pet needs light and exercise. Stop water bottles freezing up. Wrap them in bubble wrap or an old sock.

RATS, MICE AND HAMSTERS

Move cages away from windows. Even though they’re inside, move cages away from any drafts coming from windows or doors to prevent rodents from getting cold or sick. Don’t leave cages on the floor. Place them on a platform – a little table or shelf will do.

Provide extra bedding. While it may seem a good idea, don’t put rodents’ cages near a heater or the fireplace – they can easily overheat and die. Rather give them extra bedding. A fleecy blanket is ideal.

BIRDS

Avoid drafts. Always keep cages away from any drafts. Have more than one bird. They like to snuggle up together – the extra body heat helps them to keep warm.

Give them toys – just like humans physical activity can help increase body temperature. There are many bird toys on the market. Use a cage cover or put a blanket over the cage at night.

Consider accessories such as heat lamps and heated perches. Cage tents, which are designed to fit inside the cage, can also provide extra warmth.

Provide more food Eating regular meals helps birds keep a constant warm body temperature.