The days (and nights) are getting colder, and the sun is still shining but the wind is blowing, too! As we rug up with our favourite sweaters, wool scarves and blessed aircon, our pets are feeling the chill, too.
Some pet breeds (like Huskies, Pyrenees and Sheppards, Forest cats, Persians and Siberian cats) have thicker coats, more fat or a biological affinity for the chill and may enjoy spending their days in a patch of shade, while other breeds (Sphinxes, Siamese, Shorthairs, and Greyhounds, Boxers and Chihuahua) are definitely not primed for the cold.
Regardless of the fluff factor, all pets deserve to keep warm and sheltered in the upcoming winter. Here are five ways to keep your pet warm:
One. Keep them away from drafts.
Whether your pet sleeps in the bed with you, in their own bed or on the floor right in the walkway, they need to be kept away from all the cracks and corners of the house where the cold air creeps in. If they're sleeping right in the direction of a chill, they'll be cold and exhausted even when they've been sleeping all day.
Two. Put extra bedding on your pet's bed or sleeping area.
Last year we suggested getting a warming bed or warming pad for your pet, but if that isn't accessible for you, there's nothing wrong with adding an extra blanket, pillow or scrap fabric to pad your pet's bed, protect them from the cold ground and give them something to burrow under.
Three. Use a heating pad or heated bed.
Okay, so this is a bit extra, but it's possible! If you have a pet who gets cold easily, or who suffers from arthritis or immune diseases, or an elderly pet, they may require an extra boost of warmth such as a heated bed, heating pad or heated blanket.
Four. Provide plenty of food and water.
Food and water are both vital to help your pet maintain their body temperature. A malnourished or dehydrated dog or cat won't have enough energy to regulate their body temperature, leading to discomfort or even hypothermia. Winter is a great time to provide your pet with slightly warmed food or water if they like it. Feeding your pet warmed bone broth as an additional snack throughout the day is a great way to keep them hydrated, nourished and warm.
Five. Be mindful of their diet.
A well-fed pet can stay warm because their body has the energy to expend keeping warm and regulating their body temperature. Especially a diet high in high-quality protein, unsaturated fats and water for hydration. Food such as Pawganic Pet Meals are perfect for keeping your pet warm in the winter months and healthy year-round.
