As the temperature drops and winter settles into Des Moines, we pull out the coats, turn up the heat, and cozy up indoors, but what about our pets? Cold weather can bring health challenges for dogs and cats, even if they spend most of their time inside. Fleur Pet Hospital does our best to help you keep your pet protected all season long with a few key winter wellness tips.

How Winter Affects Pets

Many pet owners assume that cold-weather care is only necessary for outdoor animals. Not true! Pets that spend most of their time inside can still be affected by chilly walks, dry air, icy surfaces, and seasonal changes in behavior or appetite. You’ll want to adjust their care for the winter weather.

Tips for Pet Owners During Winter

Watch Out for Dry, Itchy Skin

Cold air and indoor heating systems can quickly dry out your pet’s skin, especially in older pets or those with existing skin sensitivities.

Wellness Tip: Use a humidifier at home, avoid over-bathing, and ask us about supplements or skin-friendly shampoos to maintain coat health.

Limit Time Outdoors in Extreme Cold

Even though pets have fur, many breeds aren’t built for prolonged exposure to freezing temps. Small, short-haired, senior, or arthritic pets are especially vulnerable.

Wellness Tip: Keep walks short during frigid weather, and consider a pet-safe coat or sweater for added warmth. As a bonus, learn about the signs of frostbite and hypothermia in pets from AAHA (American Animal Hospital Association).

Protect Paws from Ice and Salt

Snow, ice, and de-icing chemicals can cause irritation or even chemical burns on your pet’s paws.

Wellness Tip: Wipe paws with a damp cloth after walks, and consider booties or paw balm for extra protection.

Watch Your Pet’s Weight and Activity Levels

With less outdoor time and more lounging, some pets pack on extra pounds during the winter months.

Wellness Tip: Maintain a consistent exercise routine, and ask us about indoor exercise suggestions or nutrition adjustments if your pet is less active than usual.

Keep Up with Preventive Care

Don’t let colder weather derail your pet’s routine health needs. Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention should continue all year. Yes, even in winter!

Wellness Tip: Schedule your pet’s wellness exam at Fleur Pet Hospital to stay current on vaccinations and parasite prevention.

Monitor for Stiffness or Joint Pain

Cold weather can exacerbate arthritis or joint discomfort, particularly in older pets.

Wellness Tip: Watch for signs like hesitation to jump, slower movement, or stiffness after naps. We can recommend joint supplements or treatment plans to ease their discomfort.

Provide a Warm and Cozy Home Base

Make sure your pet has a warm, draft-free sleeping spot away from cold floors or open doors.

Wellness Tip: Raised beds, cozy blankets, and limiting time near cold windows can help keep pets comfortable day and night.

Schedule a Winter Veterinary Check-up in Des Moines, IA

By being proactive about your pet’s winter care, you can prevent common seasonal issues and help them feel their best no matter how low the temperatures drop. We can help you with that! Fleur Pet Hospital has preventive veterinary services in Des Moines for cats, dogs, and small mammal pets from Norwalk, Des Moines, Indianola, and neighboring Iowa communities. Contact us to schedule your pet’s winter wellness check-up with Fleur Pet Hospital.