As we dig out the woolly jumpers and swap salads for hot pots, it’s worth checking how our pets are coping with the chill too.
Older pets, especially those with arthritis, can find the cooler weather tough. If you notice stiffness, slower walks, or reluctance to climb stairs, pop in for an appointment. Managing arthritic pain is one of our most important jobs as vets/pet owners – it’s our duty to manage any pain as best we can. Thankfully we have lots of options these days at our disposal, each pet and case is different so we will work with you to try and formulate the best plan for your pet moving forward.
For smaller animals like rabbits and guinea pigs, make sure outdoor hutches are raised off the ground, sheltered from the wind, and packed with extra bedding. Nobody wants frosty toes!
And inside? Time to think about heating — cats will immediately locate the warmest spot in the house (usually the laptop), and dogs may appreciate a thicker bed or even a cosy jumper. Just make sure there’s space to cool off too — pets overheat faster than we think.
So as the nights draw in, keep them warm, comfy, and full of treats… just like us.
New family member? Take a look at our Puppy & Kitten Info Sheets.
You can even download them and pass them on to friends and family.
