Winter brings cold temperatures, shorter days, and unique challenges for pet owners. Although the season can be enjoyable and cozy, pets require extra care during winter to stay warm, comfortable, and healthy. To keep your pets healthy, happy, and warm this season, follow these expert tips from Buzz Expert Dr. Subash Rimal:

1. Keep Your Pet Warm
   • Provide soft, warm bedding placed away from cold floors and drafts.
   • Short-haired, small, young, or senior pets may benefit from sweaters or winter coats.
   • Avoid keeping pets outdoors at night, as cold temperatures can lead to hypothermia.
   
2. Grooming & Skin Care
   • Limit bathing during winter to prevent dry and irritated skin.
   • Regular brushing helps maintain natural coat insulation and improves blood circulation.
   • Look out for dandruff, excessive itching, or hair loss, and consult your veterinarian if these signs appear.
   
3. Nutrition & Hydration
   • Some pets, especially active dogs, may need slightly more calories to maintain body heat.
   • Ensure constant access to clean, fresh (unfrozen) drinking water.
   • Serving food slightly warm (never hot) can help improve appetite during cold weather.
   
4. Exercise & Sunlight
   • Continue regular exercise, but avoid early morning and late evening exposure to extreme cold.
   • Allow pets to bask in sunlight during the day, which helps with warmth and bone health.
   • Clean and dry paws after walks to remove cold, mud, salt, or chemicals.
   
5. Health Monitoring
   • Cold weather may worsen arthritis, respiratory issues, and heart conditions.
   • Watch closely for warning signs such as:
   – Shivering
   – Lethargy or weakness
   – Coughing
   – Stiff or painful movement
   – Regular veterinary check-ups are especially important for older pets.
   
6. Parasite Control Remains Essential
   • Parasites like ticks, fleas, and mites can survive during winter, particularly indoors.
   • Continue routine deworming and external parasite prevention as recommended by your veterinarian.
   
7. Heater & Fire Safety
   • Keep pets at a safe distance from heaters, firewood, and electrical heating devices to prevent burns.
   • Never leave pets unattended near open fires or heating equipment.
   When to Visit the Veterinarian Immediately
   • Persistent or severe shivering
   • Refusal to eat or drink
   • Difficulty breathing
   • Pale gums or extreme weakness

Winter care isn’t just about warmth: it’s about comfort, safety, and keeping your pets thriving during the chilly months.

About The Author

Dr. Subash Rimal-veterinarian, academic, and animal welfare advocate is a trusted name in Nepal’s veterinary field. An Assistant Professor at the Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science (IAAS), Tribhuvan University. He also serves as a practicing clinician at Lifeline Veterinary Hospital & Research Centre, Lalitpur, where he blends science and compassion in his approach to animal care.

Contact Details:
Lifeline Veterinary Hospital And Research Centre
Location: Sanepa, Lalitpur
Instagram: lifelinevet_hospital

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