Just like us, dogs and cats feel the cold. That said, generally speaking, our furry friends seem to handle drops in temperature much better than we do—thanks in part to their coats. Wondering if some are more sensitive than others?
While it’s true that dogs and cats are better adapted to the cold than we are, caution is still advised—some are far more sensitive than others. This is especially true for:
- Young animals,
- Aging animals,
- Hairless or short-haired dogs and cats, such as the Chinese Crested or the Sphynx,
- Overweight animals or those with a too low body condition score.
To prepare for winter, animals accustomed to living at least partly outdoors see their subcutaneous fat tissue thicken and their undercoat become denser. Pets that live exclusively or almost exclusively indoors are particularly vulnerable, as they have no opportunity to adapt their bodies to lower temperatures. To help your pet stay protected, it’s therefore recommended **not to clip or trim their fur too short** as winter approaches.
Small breeds, such as the Chihuahua, can also be more sensitive to the cold. However, this varies from one dog to another. Some highly active small dogs may not be bothered... while larger ones might prefer curling up in their basket by the fire instead of rolling around in the snow.
For pets that spend time outdoors, it’s important to give them the chance to shelter from wind and rain. For cats, a cat flap or a small open window lets them come inside to get cozy and warm. For dogs, a properly sized shelter (not too big so they feel secure, but not too small so they can lie down and even turn around easily) is essential. To make this den as snug as possible, insulating the walls and adding a basket or a mattress is a great idea.
For animals living outdoors or those with high physical activity, ensure their diet is adjusted to be richer in fat. Don’t hesitate to consult your vet—they can provide the best advice.
Finally, as always, ensure your furry friend has access to clean water in sufficient quantities. Indeed, one might mistakenly think that when it's cold, the risk of dehydration is lower—but that’s not the case! In freezing temperatures, the effort required for an organism to maintain a constant body temperature is significant, and this process consumes a lot of water. Also, make sure the water doesn’t freeze or become too cold (which could cause digestive issues). The best approach is to change it several times a day.
