Cold weather brings its own set of risks for pets — from icy paws and dry skin to hidden dangers like antifreeze and the very real threat of hypothermia. A little preparation keeps your dog or cat warm, safe and comfortable all winter long. Here are the practical winter pet care tips that matter most, plus the warning signs that mean it's time to head indoors or call the vet.
Keep them warm indoors and out
Not every pet is built for the cold. Short-haired breeds, small dogs, puppies, seniors and thin or unwell pets lose heat quickly. Make sure everyone has a warm, draught-free place to sleep — a cosy insulated bed raised off cold floors makes a big difference. For dogs that feel the chill on walks, a well-fitted winter coat adds real protection. Cats should be kept indoors on the coldest nights, and always give outdoor cats a way back inside.
Protect those paws
Winter pavements are hard on paws. Ice, snow and de-icing salt (grit) can crack pads and cause irritation, and salt is toxic if licked off. After every walk:
- Wipe your dog's paws, legs and belly to remove salt, grit and ice balls.
- Check between the toes for packed snow and trim the fur there if it collects.
- Consider paw balm or dog boots for extra protection on gritted routes.
The hidden danger of antifreeze
Antifreeze is one of winter's deadliest hazards for pets. It contains ethylene glycol, which tastes sweet and appealing but is extremely toxic — even a small lick can cause fatal kidney failure. Clean up any spills immediately, store containers sealed and well out of reach, and check your driveway for leaks. If you suspect your pet has ingested even a tiny amount, treat it as an emergency and call your vet at once; early treatment is critical.
Keep your pet cosy with a raised, insulated warm bed away from draughts and a snug, well-fitted dog coat for chilly walks. Both make a real difference for small, senior and thin-coated pets.
Shop warm beds →Adjust walks and exercise
Dogs still need exercise in winter, but adapt to the conditions. Keep walks shorter in extreme cold, stick to gritted paths and avoid frozen ponds and lakes — thin ice is a serious drowning risk. Walk during the lighter, warmer part of the day when you can, and use a reflective lead or light for dark mornings and evenings. On days too cold for long outings, tire your dog out indoors with games and puzzle toys instead.
Watch skin, coat and hydration
Cold, dry air and indoor heating dry out skin, leading to flaking and itching. Bathe less often in winter, use a moisturising dog shampoo, and always dry your pet fully before they go outside — a damp coat loses heat fast. Don't forget hydration either: pets can drink less in winter but still need constant access to fresh, unfrozen water. Some dogs also need slightly more food if they burn extra energy staying warm outdoors, while less-active indoor pets may need a little less to avoid winter weight gain.
Recognising hypothermia and frostbite
Prolonged cold can be dangerous. Bring your pet indoors and warm them gradually if you notice:
- Hypothermia: shivering, lethargy, weakness, slow movements, or seeking warm spots and curling up tightly.
- Frostbite: pale, grey or bluish skin on the ears, tail or paws, which may later look red and swollen.
Severe shivering, collapse, or skin that stays discoloured needs urgent veterinary care. Warm your pet slowly with blankets — never a direct heat source — and call your vet. If you're unsure whether a symptom is serious, MyFurtopia's AI Pet Health Scanner can help, and our pet care blog has more seasonal guides.
Not sure if it's serious? Scan the symptom in seconds
MyFurtopia's AI Pet Health Scanner lets you log your pet's symptoms and a photo to get an instant, vet-informed read on how urgent it is — and whether you should head to a clinic now. It's free to try.
Download the MyFurtopia AppFrequently asked questions
How cold is too cold for my dog?
It depends on breed, coat, size and age, but as a guide most dogs are fine down to around 7 °C (45 °F). Below freezing, small, thin-coated, senior and young dogs need coats and shorter outings; below about -6 °C (20 °F) any dog risks hypothermia and frostbite with prolonged exposure.
Why is antifreeze so dangerous to pets?
Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which tastes sweet but is extremely toxic — even a small amount can cause fatal kidney failure. Clean up spills immediately, store it sealed and out of reach, and if you suspect your pet has licked any, treat it as an emergency and call your vet at once.
Should I bathe my dog less in winter?
Yes. Cold, dry winter air already dries out skin, so over-bathing worsens flaking and itching. Bathe only when needed, use a moisturising dog shampoo, and make sure your dog is completely dry before going outside, since a damp coat loses heat fast.
This guide is educational and not a substitute for professional veterinary care. If you're worried about your pet, contact your vet.