Fall and winter brings cozy blankets, snowy walks, and plenty of time indoors. But for our four-legged family members, colder temperatures can also mean icy paws, dry skin, and some unexpected seasonal hazards.
Whether your dog loves playing in the snow or your cat prefers watching it from a warm windowsill, a few simple adjustments can help keep them healthy, safe, and comfortable all winter long.
Here are seven ways to help your pets weather the colder months.
1. Know When It's Too Cold
Not all pets handle cold weather the same way. Breed, size, age, coat thickness, health, and even wind and moisture can affect how quickly an animal becomes chilled.
A thick-coated Husky may enjoy temperatures that leave a short-haired Chihuahua shivering. Puppies, kittens, senior pets, and animals with medical conditions often need extra protection.
Watch for signs your pet is getting too cold:
- Shivering or trembling
- Lifting paws off the ground
- Whining or appearing anxious
- Slowing down or refusing to walk
- Hunching over or seeking shelter
If your pet shows these signs, bring them inside and help them warm up gradually. There isn't one temperature that's safe for every dog or cat. During freezing weather, keep outdoor trips brief, especially for vulnerable pets.
The Mill Tip: Even dogs that love snow need breaks to warm up. Pay attention to your pet's behavior rather than relying on the thermometer alone.
2. Protect Paws from Ice, Snow, and Salt
Winter sidewalks and driveways can be rough on sensitive paw pads. Ice, packed snow, and deicing products can cause irritation, dryness, and painful cracking. After outdoor walks, wipe your dog's paws with a damp cloth, paying special attention to the spaces between the toes. Dry them thoroughly to remove moisture and any remaining salt or deicer.
You can also help protect paws by:
- Trimming excess fur between paw pads when appropriate
- Using properly fitted dog booties
- Applying a pet-safe paw balm before outdoor walks
- Avoiding heavily salted surfaces when possible
Product Recommendation: Pet-Friendly Ice Melt
When treating sidewalks and driveways, choose a deicing product specifically marketed for use around pets. Remember that even pet-friendly products should be used according to directions, and paws should still be cleaned after exposure.
3. Create a Warm, Comfortable Place to Rest
Even indoor pets appreciate a little extra warmth during winter. Place pet beds away from drafty doors, cold tile floors, and unheated areas. Older pets and those with arthritis may especially appreciate a thick, cushioned bed that provides insulation from cold surfaces.
What about outdoor pets?
Cats and dogs should be brought indoors during dangerously cold weather whenever possible. If an animal must spend time outside, it needs a dry, insulated, wind-protected shelter with appropriate bedding and access to unfrozen water.
Straw is generally preferable to blankets in outdoor shelters because fabric can absorb moisture and freeze.
4. Keep Fresh Water Available
Pets can become dehydrated in winter, even when they aren't panting or spending time in the heat. Indoor heating can contribute to dry conditions, and outdoor water bowls may freeze surprisingly quickly. Make sure your pets always have access to fresh, clean water. For pets that spend time outside, check water frequently and use an appropriately rated heated water bowl where needed.
The Mill Tip: If your cat doesn't seem interested in drinking enough water, adding moisture-rich wet food to an otherwise balanced diet may help support hydration.
5. Don't Forget Winter Nutrition
Does your pet need more food in winter? Not necessarily!
Dogs that spend significant time outdoors in cold conditions may burn additional calories to maintain body temperature. But indoor pets that become less active during winter may need fewer calories. Rather than automatically increasing portions, consider your pet's activity level, body condition, age, and overall health.
Nutrition Options at The Mill
We carry a variety of dog and cat food brands, including Fromm, Purina Pro Plan, Exclusive, Open Farm, Taste of the Wild, and VeRUS.
Whether you're feeding an active outdoor dog, a senior companion, or an indoor cat, choosing a complete and balanced diet suited to your pet's needs is more important than simply feeding extra during cold weather.
Not sure which food is the best fit? Try The Mill's Pet Food Finder Quiz or ask our pet department team for guidance.
6. Keep Pets Active When Outdoor Time Is Limited
Shorter days and freezing temperatures can mean fewer walks and less outdoor playtime. Fortunately, physical activity and mental stimulation don't have to stop when everyone heads indoors. Try rotating toys, practicing basic training commands, hiding treats for scent games, or using food puzzles to keep pets entertained.
Indoor Enrichment Favorites at The Mill
- KONG toys: Great for supervised play and food-based enrichment.
- LickiMat products: Encourage licking and provide a fun way to serve appropriate treats.
- Benebone chews: Offer an outlet for dogs that enjoy chewing, with appropriate supervision.
- Cat toys: Encourage indoor hunting, chasing, and pouncing behaviors.
Even a few short play sessions throughout the day can help reduce boredom and keep pets engaged.
7. Watch Out for Hidden Winter Hazards
Some of the biggest dangers of winter aren't caused by the temperature alone.
Antifreeze: Many antifreeze products contain ethylene glycol, which is extremely toxic to dogs and cats. Clean spills immediately and keep containers securely stored.
Ice melt and deicers: These products can irritate paws or cause illness if swallowed. Store them away from pets and wipe paws after walks.
Space heaters and fireplaces: Curious pets can get too close to heat sources. Use protective barriers and never leave pets unattended around portable heaters.
Vehicles: Cats sometimes seek warmth near parked vehicles, including under the hood. Check around your vehicle before starting it, especially if outdoor cats are common in your area.
Frozen ponds and waterways: Keep dogs away from thin ice and frozen water, even if the surface appears solid.
If you suspect your pet has swallowed antifreeze or another toxic substance, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control service immediately. Don't wait for symptoms to develop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dogs need coats in winter?
Some do! Small breeds, short-haired dogs, puppies, senior dogs, and pets with certain health conditions may benefit from a properly fitted winter coat. Thick-coated breeds may need less insulation, but they still require protection from extreme conditions.
Can cats stay outside during winter?
Outdoor cats are vulnerable to hypothermia and frostbite, particularly during freezing, wet, or windy conditions. Bringing them indoors is safest. Community cats that cannot be brought indoors need properly insulated, weatherproof shelters and access to food and unfrozen water.
Should I bathe my dog less often in winter?
Frequent bathing can strip natural oils and contribute to dry skin. Bathe as needed using a gentle, pet-appropriate shampoo, and dry your dog thoroughly before going outside.
How can I tell if my pet has frostbite or hypothermia?
Hypothermia may cause weakness, lethargy, confusion, or reduced responsiveness. Frostbite may cause pale, gray, bluish, painful, or unusually cold skin, particularly on ears, tails, and paws. Both require prompt veterinary attention. Warm the animal gradually without rubbing or applying direct high heat.
The Mill Tip: A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Winter pet care doesn't have to be complicated. Keeping paws clean, providing a warm place to rest, maintaining proper nutrition and hydration, and adjusting outdoor time to the weather can make a big difference.
At The Mill, we know pets are family. From nutritious dog and cat foods to comfortable beds, grooming supplies, and indoor enrichment toys, we're here to help you care for them through every season. Visit your nearest Mill location or explore our pet department online to find what your four-legged family members need for a safe, comfortable winter.
