Winter Pet Care: Cold-Weather Risks for Dogs and Cats
Prepared by the Waggle editorial team. This article is educational, not a diagnosis or an individual veterinary review.
Photo by Ana Williamson on Pexels. Illustrative photo; not a patient or clinical diagnosis.
If it's too cold for you, it may be too cold for your pet. Winter brings hazards that surprise many pet owners, from frostbite to toxic antifreeze.
Cold exposure and frostbite
Small, short-haired, very young and senior pets lose heat fastest. Shorten outdoor trips in freezing weather, and consider a coat or sweater. Frostbite most often affects ears, tail and paws, and may look pale, grey or very red. Shivering, weakness and lethargy can signal hypothermia and need prompt veterinary care.
Antifreeze is a serious poison
Antifreeze tastes sweet to pets but can cause severe kidney damage, even in small amounts. Wipe up spills, store it securely and call a vet or emergency clinic immediately if your pet may have licked any.
Salt and de-icers
Road salt irritates paws and can upset the stomach if licked. Wipe paws and belly after walks, and use pet-safe de-icer at home.
Outdoor cats
Cats may crawl under car hoods for warmth. Bang on the hood before starting your engine. Keep cats indoors during extreme cold if you can.
Indoor comfort
- Provide warm bedding away from drafts
- Keep space heaters and fireplaces out of reach
- Watch for dry, flaky skin from indoor heat
- Expect arthritis to flare in older pets, and ask your vet about pain relief
Need an in-person visit? Find a vet near me.
FAQs
Do dogs need coats in winter?
Short-coated, small, senior or very young dogs often do. Thick-coated breeds usually need less.
Can I talk to a vet if clinics are closed?
Yes. Waggle Vet offers licensed vets 24/7, including nights, weekends and holidays. Keep your pet's health records handy in your pet health vault.
Related reading
- Summer Pet Safety: Heatstroke, Paws, and Hydration
- Holiday Hazards: Foods and Plants That Send Pets to the Vet
- What Belongs in Your Pet's Complete Health File
Waggle resources
Find nearby US veterinary clinics
Store pet documents with Waggle Vault
Sources and further guidance
Sources checked October 13, 2026. These references inform the guidance; they do not mean the authors medically reviewed or endorsed this article.
Still have questions?
For non-emergency questions, explore Waggle Vet. Trouble breathing, collapse, suspected poisoning or other severe signs need immediate in-person emergency care—do not wait for an online chat.
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