Winter Weather Tips for Pet and Livestock Owners

BATON ROUGE—As temperatures drop, the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine reminds pet and livestock owners to take extra precautions to keep animals safe and healthy during the coldest months of the year. Cold weather can worsen medical conditions such as arthritis, and animals—like people—have different tolerances for low temperatures. LSU Vet Med veterinarians encourage owners to schedule preventive care exams to ensure pets and livestock are ready for winter.

Tips for pet owners

Know the Limits

Cold tolerance varies by breed, coat thickness, body fat, age, and health. Short-haired, small, elderly, or arthritic pets are more vulnerable to cold and ice. Pets with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or hormonal imbalances (such as Cushing's disease) may have a harder time regulating their body temperature and may be more susceptible to problems from temperature extremes. The same goes for very young and very old pets. If you need help determining your pet's temperature limits, consult your veterinarian.

Stay Inside

Cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. It's a common belief that dogs and cats are more resistant than people to cold weather because of their fur, but it's untrue. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and generally should be kept inside. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods in below-freezing weather.

Make Some Noise

Before starting your car, bang on the hood and honk the horn to scare away outdoor or feral cats that may be sheltering near warm engines.

Check the Paws

Check your dog's paws frequently for signs of cold-weather injury or damage, such as cracked or bleeding paw pads. During a walk, sudden lameness may be due to an injury or may be due to ice accumulation between his/her toes. 

Dress for the Weather

Short-haired pets benefit from sweaters or coats. Always use a dry garment when heading outside. Some pet owners also use booties to protect their dog's feet; if you choose to use them, make sure they fit properly.

Keep Pets Identified

Snow and ice can hide familiar scents, making it easier for pets to get lost. Ensure collars and microchip information are up to date.

Avoid Cold Cars

Just as hot cars are dangerous in summer, cold cars can be deadly in winter. Limit travel and never leave pets unattended in a vehicle.

Prevent Poisoning

Clean up antifreeze spills immediately; even a small amount can be fatal. Use pet-safe de-icers whenever possible.

Protect Family

Odds are your pet will be spending more time inside during the winter, so it's a good time to make sure your house is properly pet-proofed. Use space heaters with caution around pets because they can cause burns or they can be knocked over, potentially starting a fire. Install carbon monoxide detectors to keep your entire family safe from harm. If you have a pet bird, make sure its cage is away from drafts.

Provide Shelter

If pets must stay outside, supply a sturdy, insulated shelter raised off the ground with dry bedding and fresh, unfrozen water. Avoid heat lamps and space heaters due to fire and burn risks.

Recognize Problems

Watch for shivering, weakness, anxiety, or attempts to burrow—these may signal hypothermia. Contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect hypothermia or frostbite.

Be Prepared

Keep an emergency kit with pet food, water, and medications for at least five days in case of power outages or severe weather.

Feed Appropriately

Outdoor pets may need more calories to maintain body heat, but consult your veterinarian to ensure proper nutrition without overfeeding.

Tips for Livestock Owners

Schedule Veterinary Care Early

Address health concerns, vaccinations, and deworming before harsh conditions arrive. Animals that are pregnant, very young, or elderly may need special attention.

Provide Shelter

Livestock can tolerate cold but need protection from wind, rain, and snow. Structural shelters with ventilation and dry bedding are best. Check blankets regularly for irritation or injury.

Ensure Water Access

Keep water sources from freezing with heated buckets or tank heaters. Livestock will drink less if water is too cold, increasing health risks.

Manage Feed

Increase feed quality or quantity to help animals generate heat, and minimize ice or mud buildup to prevent slips and ensure veterinarian access.

About LSU Vet Med: Bettering lives through education, public service, and discovery

The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine is one of only 33 veterinary schools in the U.S. and the only one in Louisiana. LSU Vet Med is dedicated to improving and protecting the lives of animals and people through superior education, transformational research, and compassionate care. We teach. We heal. We discover. We protect.