Winter Pet Care Tips and Toxicities

Snow removal salt

  • Be sure to remove salt from your pet's paws immediately.
  • Some substances have low to moderate toxicity, depending on the ingredients and the amount ingested.
  • Read the label and take all neccessary precautions.
  • Store in tight containers out of pet's/children's reach.

Antifreeze

  • Even a small amount of antifreeze can be fatal.
  • Read all warnings and labels carefully.
  • Thoroughly clean up spills, and keep containers tightly closed and out of reach.

Napping Cats

  • Cats sometimes climb onto vehicle engines for warmth.
  • Before starting your vehicle knock on the hood and honk the horn.

Food/Water

  • Staying warm requires extra calories, so adjust your pet's ration accordingly when the temperature drops.
  • Always have fresh, clean, unfrozen water available.

Housing

  • Indoor Pet Housing

        Keep bed/crate kept in a warm, draft free area (preferably off the floor).

  • Outdoor Pet Housing

        Warm, insulated pet house or shelter

        Keep elevated to avoid accumulating moisture.

        Provide a door to keep out the cold winter winds.

        If in a pen, use bales of hay to block out the wind, and cover the top.

        If the wind chill or other weather conditions become severe, bring your pet inside.

Frostbite

  • Remove ice and snow from your pet's paws immediately.
  • Skin may turn reddish, white, or grey, and may be scaly.
  • If you suspect frostbite, immediately take your pet to a warm area and thaw by applying warm, moist towels that are changed frequently.  Continue until infected area becomes flushed.  Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible so he/she can evaluate the seriousness of the condition.

Special Holiday Tips

  • Increased activity levels and more visitors during the holidays can upset your pet's routine.  Try to keep your pet on his/her regular schedule for feeding and exercise, and be sure he/she has plenty of fresh water.
  • If you plan to take your pet with you to visit relatives or friends, make sure s/he is welcome.  Because of the excitement during the holiday season, you might consider boarding your pet or hiring a pet sitter.
  • Never place ribbons or yarn around your pet's neck, and do not allow your pet to play with plastic/foil wrappings or six-pack beverage holders.
  • Cover or tack down electrical cords
  • Many holiday treats can be harmful or toxic to pets, so keep your pet on his/her regular diet and caution visitors against giving your pet "special treats."
  • Some holiday toxicities include: holly, mistletoe, fire salts, poinsettia leaves and stems, juniper, cedar, pine, and fir greenery, and Christmas tree preservation solution.