6 tips on how to keep your pets warm in winter

Just as you would do for yourself or your loved ones, it is very important to keep your furry friends warm in winter. After all, they are living things at the risk of falling seriously ill when the mercury dips.

Things such as keeping their bedding dry or stimulating fur growth can go a long way, experts suggest. Here are some other tips on how to keep your pets warm this winter.

Dry bedding

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No one likes a cold floor. A small bed and pillow or blanket should be all what a pet needs to keep warm during the cold winter nights. You can give them options as well. Your dog or cat may prefer to switch sleeping spots to be warmer or cooler depending, on the indoor temperature.

Clothing

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Use pet clothing options. Puppies are less tolerant towards cold temperatures because they have less muscle and fat mass, as compared to adult dogs. Muscle and fat increase their metabolism and keeps them warm. Puppy coats won't be as thick or long to offer protection. Little pups have less body mass to generate natural heat, too, and often benefit from a doggy sweater especially when they during outdoor bathroom duty.

Let that fur grow

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Let the pups adjust gradually to outdoor chills. That stimulates their fur and makes it grow thicker. Indoor pets won't be as well equipped to spend time outside, so be mindful and bring them back inside after short trips to the bathroom and back.

Protect skin and paws

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Checking the paws of your pets in frequent intervals for any signs of cold-weather injury or damage (like cracked paw pads or bleeding) is very important. These can cause them immense pain and your pets might even end up losing the ability to walk.

Try understanding problems

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Study what the problem is if your pet is behaving unusual. If they are shivering, whining, seem weak or start looking for warm places to burrow, get them back inside quickly because they are showing signs of hypothermia. If you suspect your pet has hypothermia or any other worry, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Avoid serving cold water or food

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This is another very important practice. You should only give room-temperature water and warm food to pets. Cold water or food during the harsh winter can make them fall sick and catch a cold.

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