Winter brings dry, cold air, rain, sleet, and snow that can harm pets’ paws and skin. Ice-melting chemicals pose risks if licked off paws. Follow these top 10 tips from ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center experts to safeguard your pet’s health.
1. Keep Pets Indoors
Bring pets inside during cold weather. If too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Outdoor pets risk freezing, disorientation, loss, theft, injury or death. Never leave pets alone in cars, which trap cold air like refrigerators, leading to hypothermia. Indoor/outdoor cats should stay inside until temperatures rise.
Stray or feral cats may sleep under car hoods for warmth. Before starting your engine, bang loudly on the hood to scare them away and prevent fan belt injuries. Housecats gravitate to heat sources like fireplaces or radiators, risking burns—supervise closely.
2. Wipe Paws and Dry Off
Towel dry pets immediately after coming inside. Transitions from cold outdoors to warm indoors cause itchy, flaky skin. Focus on feet, between toes, and remove snowballs from paw pads to prevent irritation.
After walks, wash and dry feet and stomach to remove ice, salt, and chemicals. Check for cracked pads or red toes. Carry a towel for cleaning irritated paws on longer outings. Wipe belly fur too, as de-icing chemicals irritate skin.
3. Protect Paws
Massage petroleum jelly or vet-approved paw protectants into pads before outings to shield from salt and chemicals. Booties offer extra coverage, preventing sand, salt lodging between toes. Use pet-safe ice melts when possible.
Salt and de-icers cause pain on paws and poisoning if licked. Wipe paws post-walk; apply Vaseline or booties for protection. Paw balms or ‘paw bombs’ soothe irritation. For long-haired dogs, trim fur between toes to reduce ice balls and chemicals.
4. Avoid Shaving Dogs
Never shave dogs to the skin in winter—a longer coat insulates warmth. For short-haired breeds, use sweaters or coats covering from tail base to belly with high collars. Trim long-haired dogs minimally to avoid clinging ice, salt, and chemicals drying skin.
5. Bathe Less Often
Minimize baths in cold spells. Frequent washing strips essential oils, causing dry, flaky skin. If bathing necessary, use vet-recommended moisturizing shampoo/rinse and dry completely before walks.
6. Feed More and Hydrate
Pets expend extra energy staying warm in winter. Increase food slightly, especially protein for active outdoor dogs, to supply calories and maintain coat health. Ensure ample fresh water to prevent dehydration and dry skin. Outdoor dogs need insulated houses and constant water access.
7. Provide Warm Bedding
Give pets a warm sleep spot off the floor, away from drafts. Cozy beds with blankets or pillows work best. Puppies, seniors, ill or thin-coated pets tolerate cold poorly—limit outdoor time to potty breaks.
8. Keep Dogs Leashed
Never unleash dogs on snow or ice, especially in storms. Snow masks scents, leading to easy disorientation and loss—more dogs lost in winter than other seasons. Always use ID tags.
9. Beware Antifreeze
Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is lethal poison for pets in small amounts—sweet taste attracts them. Clean spills promptly. Opt for propylene glycol products. Store safely.
10. Humidify Home
Maintain home humidity to combat dry winter air irritating skin. Combine with towel drying for best skin health.
Special Considerations for Puppies and Seniors
Puppies don’t tolerate cold well and housebreaking challenges increase. Paper-train indoors if needed. Aged, ill, or sensitive breeds need minimal outdoor exposure. Large outdoor dogs require insulated, waterproof shelters with bedding and water—never leave in storms or extreme cold.
Recognizing Cold Weather Emergencies
| Sign | Dogs | Cats |
|---|---|---|
| Hypothermia | Shivering, lethargy, weak pulse, pale gums | Low body temp, stiff body, slow breathing |
| Frostbite | Discolored, cold ears/paws/tail; pain on touch | Same, ears/tail/paws |
| Paw Issues | Cracks, redness, limping from chemicals | Burns from salt/ice |
Seek vet care immediately for these signs. Warm gradually; do not rub frostbitten areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I leave my dog outside in winter?
No. Pets should stay indoors. Outdoor setups must be insulated with shelter, but avoid storms and extreme cold.
Are booties necessary for walks?
Recommended for protection from chemicals and cold. Paw wax alternatives work too.
What if my cat goes outside?
Keep strictly indoors. Check car hoods for strays.
How much more food in winter?
Slight increase for energy needs; consult vet for amounts.
Is antifreeze safe if propylene glycol?
Less toxic but still hazardous—clean spills and store away.
These tips ensure pets stay safe, warm, and healthy through winter. Consult vets for breed-specific advice.
References
- Cold Weather Safety Tips — ASPCA. Accessed 2026. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/cold-weather-safety-tips
- “Ruff” Winter: ASPCA Tips For Keeping Your Pet Safe — CBS News. 2023. https://www.cbsnews.com/newyork/news/aspca-winter-pet-safety/
- Cold Weather Tips from the ASPCA — Animal Care Clinic Branson. Accessed 2026. https://www.animalcareclinicbranson.com/insights/cold-weather-tips-from-the-aspca/
- 10 Expert Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe This Winter — ASPCA. Accessed 2026. https://www.aspca.org/news/10-expert-tips-keep-your-pet-safe-winter
- Keep Your Pets Warm, Happy and Healthy with These Winter Safety Tips — ASPCA. Accessed 2026. https://www.aspca.org/news/keep-your-pets-warm-happy-and-healthy-these-winter-safety-tips
- ASPCA urges pet owners to take extra precautions as winter… — YouTube (ASPCA). Accessed 2026. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iG7GWTfM2lg
