Most pets cope with a British winter perfectly well with a few sensible changes. The risks come less from the cold itself and more from things that come with it: antifreeze on driveways, grit on pavements, dark evenings, icy ponds and draughty hutches. This article covers practical steps for dogs, cats and small animals. It's general guidance; your vet knows your pet and is the best person to ask about age, breed or health issues.
Dogs: walks in cold, wet and dark weather
Do some dogs need a coat?
Plenty of dogs with thick double coats are fine without one. Coats can help dogs that feel the cold more, such as:
- Small, short-haired or thin-coated breeds, such as whippets, greyhounds and chihuahuas.
- Puppies, older dogs, and dogs with health conditions.
- Dogs that have been clipped short.
A good dog coat fits snugly without rubbing under the front legs, covers the back and chest, and lets the dog move and go to the toilet normally. Take it off indoors so they don't overheat. Our pet winter essentials guide covers what to look for.
Paws, grit and salt
Rock salt and grit spread on roads and pavements can irritate paws, and dogs may lick it off. After walks on gritted routes:
- Wipe or rinse paws, between the toes, and the belly with lukewarm water and dry them.
- Check for cuts or cracked pads, and trim long fur between pads that collects ice balls.
- Some owners use a paw balm before walks; ask your vet if your dog has sore or cracked pads.
Ice and water
Keep dogs on a lead near frozen ponds, lakes and canals. Dogs can fall through ice, and people trying to rescue them are put at serious risk. If a dog does go through the ice, call the emergency services rather than going onto the ice yourself.
Being seen in the dark
Winter walks often happen before sunrise or after dark. A reflective or light-up collar, lead or harness, and a reflective layer or torch for you, make it easier for drivers and cyclists to see you both.
Antifreeze: a serious winter hazard
Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) and some screenwash products are extremely toxic to cats and dogs. They can taste sweet, and even small amounts can be fatal. To reduce the risk:
- Store antifreeze and screenwash in sealed containers out of reach.
- Clean up spills on driveways and garage floors straight away.
- Check your car for leaks.
- Consider products marketed as less harmful to pets, but still treat them with care.
If you think your pet has drunk or licked antifreeze, contact a vet immediately, even if they seem well. Quick treatment matters.
Cats in winter
- Indoor access: make sure your cat can get in easily, through a cat flap or by having a reliable routine. Outdoor cats often look for warm spots, which can include car engines. Bang on the bonnet before starting the car on cold mornings.
- Warm resting places: cats love warm beds away from draughts. A raised bed, a heated pet pad designed for animals, or a blanket in a sunny spot all help. Make sure any heated product is designed for pets and used as instructed.
- Litter: some cats are reluctant to go out in bad weather, so an indoor litter tray can help, especially for older cats.
Small pets: rabbits and guinea pigs
Rabbits and guinea pigs kept outdoors need extra protection in winter. Guinea pigs in particular are sensitive to cold and damp.
- Shelter: raise hutches off the ground and protect them from wind and rain, for example by turning them away from prevailing weather or using a weatherproof cover that still allows ventilation.
- Bedding: add plenty of extra dry bedding, like straw for burrowing and warmth. Check it daily and replace anything wet.
- Water: water bottles and bowls can freeze. Check them at least twice a day, and consider insulated bottle covers or a spare bottle to swap.
- Moving indoors: some owners move hutches into a shed or unused garage in the coldest months. Make sure it's well ventilated and well lit, and never place it where car exhaust fumes can build up.
- Company and exercise: they still need daily exercise and time with their companions, even in winter.
Is my pet too cold?
Signs that a pet is struggling with the cold can include shivering, lifting paws repeatedly, reluctance to keep walking, hunching, or seeking warmth constantly. Older and very young animals, and those with health conditions, are more at risk. If you're worried, warm them gradually with dry towels and blankets and contact your vet.
Indoor heating and pets
- Keep pets away from open fires, wood burners and portable heaters, and use guards where appropriate.
- Don't leave heaters running unattended with pets in the room.
- Watch for pets chewing cables.
- Remember essential oils used in diffusers can be harmful to some pets, particularly cats. Ask your vet if you use them.
Food and weight
Some active outdoor dogs burn more energy in cold weather, while many pets are less active in winter and can gain weight. Ask your vet before changing how much your pet eats, and adjust treats rather than meals if your pet is putting on weight.
Winter checklist
- Store antifreeze safely and clean spills.
- Wipe paws after gritted walks.
- Keep dogs on a lead near frozen water.
- Use reflective gear on dark walks.
- Give cats warm, draught-free beds and easy indoor access.
- Protect outdoor hutches and check water twice a day.
- Contact your vet if you're worried.
For practical winter kit such as coats, warm beds and reflective gear, see our pet winter essentials guide.