As the winter sets in, a vet has urged owners to keep a close eye on their four-legged friends as the temperatures drop – with seven “serious” symptoms to look out for
A vet has issued a warning to pet owners about seven symptoms to watch for this winter that could signal more “serious” health concerns. As temperatures across Britain continue to drop with winter now firmly in swing, our beloved animals may also be struggling with the bitter conditions.
Specialists from Medivet, a leading veterinary care provider, are encouraging pet owners to monitor their furry companions closely as the colder months take hold. From ailments and frost-damaged paws to severe conditions such as hypothermia, vets warn winter weather can trigger numerous health complications for pets – with early signs often overlooked.
Countless households throughout the UK are home to pets, with cats, dogs and other animals often becoming cherished, essential family members.
While all responsible owners endeavour to protect their pets’ wellbeing all year round, winter can bring unique risks and hazards.
Many turn to social media seeking guidance, where both amateurs and professionals eagerly offer their expertise and insights.
Several warning signs should be monitored in your pet during spells of harsh weather that might suggest something more concerning.
These include:
- Shivering
- Excessive sneezing
- Runny nose
- Constant watery eyes
- Dry or flaky skin
- Drowsiness
- Whimpering/whining
Signs of hypothermia in animals:
Hypothermia in pets poses a grave risk and may, in extreme circumstances, prove fatal, making awareness of symptoms crucial. It occurs when an animal’s body temperature drops to a perilously low level, which can then trigger health complications that could result in organs failing.
Even minor cases can cause problems.
If you suspect your pet may be suffering from hypothermia, seek immediate veterinary attention.
Particular signs of hypothermia in pets also include:
- Shivering (although this may suddenly stop in pets when their temperature reaches dangerously low levels)
- Pale lips and gums
- Low energy
- A loss of coordination
Dr Rhian Littlehales, clinical governance director at Medivet, has provided advice to help owners protect their pets throughout the brutal winter months.
The vet started with exercise and explained: “While it’s important that your pet still gets time outside for exercise and toilet breaks, ensure they are only outside for short, but frequent bursts to minimise exposure to the cold.
“Prolonged cold exposure can cause your pet’s paws to crack, or even become frostbitten, and so it’s vital to keep walks and outside time brief and keep your pets moving and active at all times.”
The vet also recommended inspecting your dog or cat’s paws for “signs of injury” after they’ve been walking outside and encouraged owners to “be vigilant about whether they appear to be in discomfort”.
Icy surfaces pose a threat to animals but, similarly, de-icing products like road grit and antifreeze can create problems such as chemical burns and dry, cracking paws.
The vet suggests washing paws with warm water after pets come back from outside “to ensure no residue is left”.
Dr Littlehales said: “These chemicals can also be harmful to your pet if ingested, especially cats as even a small amount can cause kidney failure and even death, so be careful to prevent them from getting any on their coat or licking it off their paws.
“If your pet does get these substances on them, clean it away thoroughly with warm water before drying.”
The vet also advises owners to consider purchasing a coat for their pets, ensuring vaccinations remain current, and exercising particular caution during icy weather which can make it difficult for animals to “keep traction on the ground”.
This could lead to fractures or sprains.
