Important Winter Care Tips for Your Pet

The winter months can be brutal for pets. Once winter rolls around, it’s a good time to start prepping your home. Today HICC PET™ offers some essential winter care tips for your pet. We cover food preparation, pet skin cleansing alternatives, winter paw care, and more. Read further to learn how to make this the best winter for you and your pets. 

Paws are susceptible to dryness, irritation, and bleeding in the winter. Frostbite causes cracked paws and discomfort to your furry friend. This is why cat and dog paw care in winter is so important. Be cautious of snow-covered sidewalks. Not only does the ice sting, but salt and other ice-melting chemicals may also collect in the paws. Prevent discomfort by carrying a towel or pet wipe to remove excess material. Pet wipes are lightweight and convenient for cleaning on the go. Consider placing booties or slip-resistant socks on your pet’s feet before going outdoors for more protection. 

If your pet loves the outdoors, you should monitor its food portions. The body uses more energy to stay warm, which may leave your pet hungry. Ensure your pet is eating enough for adequate nourishment. If your pet hates the outdoors, it may need less food to fulfill its nutritional needs. If you are unsure how much food to portion for the winter, consult your vet for more information. If you live in an area that experiences blizzards, stock up on pet food in case of a power outage. 

A pet’s coat does not guarantee warmth. Pets can also suffer from cold-related illnesses like hypothermia. If you own a short-haired or hairless pet, wrap them up in soft blankets or comfortable pet clothing for extra heat and protection. If you have a heat warmer, pets may enjoy laying next to the warmer for more extended periods. Heat warmers can cause skin burns if owners are not cautious. Keep pets away from radiators altogether or monitor the amount of time spent near the area. 

The cold increases the frequency of dry skin. During the winter, skip the baths and switch to natural wipes for pets instead. Pet wipes prevent your pet’s coat from irritation and maintain the skin’s natural moisture. We recommended HICC PET™ pet wipes for cats and dogs. The natural disinfectant in the wipes removes foul odors and keeps pets clean without saturating them in a bath. Limit baths to once a month or if your pet is highly soiled. 

It’s essential to keep your pet’s skin moisturized during the winter to prevent irritation or rashes. Use natural resources for coat moisturization, like coconut oil or moisturizing wipes for pet skin. Apply a light amount to avoid a greasy coat. Keep your pets clean and feeling soft with these natural solutions. 

If snow is present, that means ice is also present. The outdoors are very dangerous for pets if they slip on the ice. Keep them leashed at all times to prevent them from running around and injuring themselves. 

If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. Cold cars can feel like freezers in the winter, so avoid locking your pet in the car if you can. Keep blankets handy in your vehicle, just in case. 

We love the winter, but our pets don’t love the cold! HICC PET™ offers pet wipes and natural moisturizing products to keep your pet safe during the winter. We provide pet grooming wipes and wound care sprays to soothe and relieve any rashes or injuries they may suffer from. 

Sometimes you don’t have access to a vet during a blackout or blizzard. If your pet gets injured, it’s essential to have some skin protection products if clinical care is not available. Also take care of winter paw care. Visit us online for more pet wellness products and the top pet care tips.