This is for Both Cats & Dogs alike as most of us here on yorkie talk have both dogs & cats !! I know I do
.. If you have anything to add please feel free too!!
1. Antifreeze is lethal to animals
. Sweet tasting, it is often sought out by pets so be very careful to clean up and leaks or spills. If you suspect your pet has licked some, please contact Your VET immediately.
2. Car Engines. Cats love to sleep near a warm car engine and will curl up under the hood so make sure you honk the horn before starting the car if your cat or a neighborhood cat could be in there
.
3. Rock salt used to melt snow and ice; it is very irritant to paws and pads
. Please use pet safe halide on your property and clean off your dog’s paws carefully after walking outside.
4. Dandruff can be a problem in the dry winter air and with home heating. Regular brushing, medicated baths, and using supplements including omega fish oil can alleviate this.
5. Older pets are more sensitive to the cold particularly if arthritic; so limit their time outdoors on the colder days
.
6. Small and short-coated breeds feel the chill of cold weather more so a sweater or coat is a good idea for those winter walks. Try some doggie boots !
7. Never leave your dog or cat alone in a parked car during freezing weather as the inside of your care can become like a fridge.
8. Most dogs
exercise a lot less in the winter so be aware of their need for fewer calories and watch that waistline.
9. Toenails can get longer in the winter with less exercise on hard surfaces. Regular clipping is a good idea to prevent cracking your local groomer or Vet would be happy to do this for your pet if you are unsure of how much to clip.
10. Around the winter holidays please watch out for pets gaining access to chocolates, leftovers, or table food and plants. These can be the cause of a lot of GI upsets, both major and minor, or even toxicities. Cats love to play with string and tinsel but these can lead to intestinal obstructions, which can be fatal if not diagnosed in time and dealt with surgically.
**************I hope U & Your Pets enjoy the coming winter*********