How Can Colder Weather Affect My Pet

How Can Colder Weather Affect My Pet?

It's that time of year when the weather begins to turn: darker evenings, rainy showers, storms and the encroaching cold. Us humans aren't the only ones who notice the changing seasons; our pets are naturally tuned into their surroundings too. During the transitional weather, you may notice your pet behaving differently as a response. Some pets (cats and dogs in particular) can become lethargic, more anxious, or withdrawn. Here's what to look out for and how you can help minimise the mood swings your pet experiences during this time. 

Mood Swings

Increased Anxiety: The transitional weather from Summer to Autumn can often involve a scattering of thunderstorms as the lingering warmth, moisture and the incoming cold air trigger an unstable atmosphere. Many pets can feel uneasy when exposed to extreme noises, thunder being one of them. With the addition of lighting, storms can be a very overwhelming experience for them, particularly as animals tend to have a heightened sense of hearing compared to humans. Cats and dogs may be on high alert during storms, and may find it uncomfortable to endure. Closing curtains, distracting them with other noises and toys, using anxiety reducers, and remaining calm yourself are great ways to aid your cat or dog during the more extreme sides of shifting weather. 

Appetite changes: Some pets may reduce their eating habits if they are suffering from weather-induced anxiety or stress (as previously discussed). However, it is possible that some pets may take to eating more during colder weather due to natural instinct; eating more will increase their fat stores for warmth over the Autumn and Winter. Your pet may fall on either side of this spectrum, but having regular meal times and suitable bowls/ feeders is a good way to keep their appetite regulated. Note - if your pet is refusing to eat or disinterested in food for a prolonged period of time, it is recommended to consult this issue with a vet. 

Lethargy/ depression: Shorter days, darker evenings, rainy weather - we all know the drill. Much like us, our pets can exhibit signs of lethargy/ depression during the colder, wetter seasons. Wetter weather can keep your cat or dog indoors more, leading to boredom, decreased activity and fatigue. Providing interactive toys and taking advantage of sunnier/ drier spells for dog walking are good ways to keep activity up during colder months. To shop interactive cat toys click here, and to shop interactive dog toys, click here.

Physical Health: 

Joint stiffness: With decreased activity, cold weather can lead to some pets developing joint stiffness or joint pain. Providing comfort (a safe, quiet spot that they know is theirs, with a warm bed), and using interactive toys to keep their activity up are good ways to reduce this. Always consult your vet if your pet is exhibiting extreme or prolonged signs of pain. 

Frostbite and hypothermia: In extreme cases your pet may suffer from extreme coldness and catch frostbite (e.g. in their ears, tail or feet) or hypothermia. Avoid leaving your pet out in freezing temperatures for prolonged periods of time and watch for signs of stiffness, trembling and changing skin/ gum colour. These are some indicators of hypothermia or impending frostbite. Get your pet to some warmth as soon as possible, and insulate them with blankets or coats, rather than rubbing them to warm them up. 

Small Animals:

For small animals that usually live outdoors, like rabbits or guinea pigs, it is best to consider how you can keep them warm over Autumn and Winter. Make sure they have plenty of bedding to keep them insulated, and consider introducing a heater if their hutch is spacious enough. Keep an eye on their water bottles and feeding bowls to ensure that their food and water does not freeze over. 

The best thing you can do for any pet during the colder temperatures is simply keep an eye on them - monitor any behavioural changes, any physical changes and prioritise keeping their activity regular and spaces warm.