How to Care for Aging Pets in the Winter
As pets grow older, winter can become more challenging for their bodies, making it hard for them to stay comfortable. Cold temperatures and slippery conditions outside can worsen joint pain, affect mobility, and impact their overall health, but as a pet parent, there are things you can do to help them. Here are a few ways to care for aging pets in the winter to help your senior pet stay safe, warm, and comfortable throughout the colder months.
Keep Them Warm, Indoors and Out
Aging pets tend to be more sensitive to cold due to reduced muscle mass and slower circulation. Make sure your pet has a warm, draft-free place to rest, ideally with a comfortable bed designed to support aging joints.
If your pet goes outside, even briefly, consider getting them a well-fitted sweater or coat, especially for small breeds, short-haired pets, or those with arthritis.
Prioritize Paw Care
Winter air is dry, and older pets are especially prone to cracked paw pads. Use a pet-safe balm or moisturizer when needed, wipe their paws after outdoor walks, and watch for signs of irritation from salt or ice melt chemicals if you live in an area that experiences winter weather. Keeping your pet’s nails trimmed can also help improve their stability on slick surfaces.
Support Aging Joints and Mobility
Cold weather can intensify stiffness and joint pain in older pets. When possible, limit their exposure to icy surfaces, use pet-safe ice melt on walkways, and place rugs or non-slip mats around your home to help prevent falls.
Shorter, more frequent walks may be easier than long outings in the winter, and gentle movement can help keep their joints from becoming too stiff.
Watch for Subtle Health Changes
Senior pets may not always show obvious signs of discomfort. During winter, keep a close eye on changes in their appetite, mobility, sleep patterns, or behavior. Symptoms such as increased lethargy, reluctance to go outside, or trouble standing could signal pain or illness that warrants veterinary attention.
Maintain Routine and Mental Stimulation
Shorter days and colder weather can disrupt routines, but consistency is especially important for older pets. Stick to regular feeding times, gentle play, and daily interaction to maintain your pet’s overall routine.
Indoor enrichment activities, such as puzzle toys or light training sessions, can help keep your pet’s aging mind engaged when outdoor activity options are limited.
Help Them Navigate Winter Anxiety
Older pets can become more sensitive to winter-related stressors such as loud winds, storms, or changes in daylight. Reduced vision or hearing can also make unfamiliar sounds more unsettling. Create calm, predictable environments for them by keeping lights on during dark afternoons, limiting exposure to extreme weather noise when possible, and offering quiet reassurances during storms.
Schedule Seasonal Vet Checkups
Winter is a good time for a wellness visit, especially for senior pets managing chronic conditions. Your vet can assess your pet’s joint health, adjust medications, and offer guidance tailored to your pet’s age and lifestyle. Preventative care can make a noticeable difference in your pet’s comfort during colder months.
A Little Extra Care in the Winter Goes a Long Way
We hope these tips help you feel more confident about how to care for aging pets in the winter, so you and your beloved companion can have happy, comfortable days ahead. If you are preparing to say goodbye to your senior pet, we are here to help you during this difficult time with humane cremation options, bereavement support, and memorial items to keep your pet’s memory alive. If you need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact your local Pet Passages office.