Winter: feeding and care to help your pet weather the cold without problems

There's a common misconception that, because they have fur, dogs and cats don't need special care when the cold weather arrives. In reality, winter directly affects their diet, energy levels, and even their joint health, so it's worth adjusting some habits before the coldest temperatures hit.

Dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors or do intense outdoor exercise burn more calories just to maintain their body temperature, while older pets often feel the cold more in their joints, with more stiffness and discomfort than at other times of the year.

In addition, many pets drink less water in winter simply because they are less thirsty due to the cold, something that may go unnoticed but increases the risk of urinary problems if not monitored.

More calories for the days of intense cold

A dog that gets a lot of walks or outdoor work in winter may need slightly more calories than in the warmer months, especially if it has short hair or is a small breed, which lose heat more easily. On the other hand, a pet that lives indoors with heating and hardly reduces its activity doesn't need more food just because it's cold outside: increasing its ration unnecessarily is one of the most common causes of winter weight gain.

Joints and cold: why older people suffer

Cold weather tends to worsen joint stiffness in older dogs and cats, especially if they already have some wear and tear. Keeping their bed off the cold floor, moderating but not eliminating daily exercise, and ensuring adequate intake of glucosamine and chondroitin in their diet are measures that help prevent discomfort from increasing during these months.

The water that is forgotten in winter

Drinking less water in winter, combined with very dry diets, can promote the formation of crystals or urinary tract infections, especially in cats. It's advisable to ensure the water bowl always has fresh, accessible water, and discuss with your veterinarian whether adding some wet food to their diet during these months would be beneficial for hydration.