How to Keep Outdoor Pets Warm in Winter - Outdoor Cabinets

Winter can be a challenging time for outdoor pets. As temperatures drop, pet owners need to take extra steps to ensure their furry friends stay happy, healthy, and warm. Implementing some simple tips can help outdoor pets thrive all winter long.

Prepare Their Shelter

One of the most important things is ensuring outdoor pets have a warm, dry shelter to retreat to. Here are some tips for preparing their housing:

Insulate the Space

Use straw or hay to line the floors and walls of the shelter. This will provide an insulating layer that holds in body heat.
Cover openings with a heavy tarp or blanket to block drafts. Make sure not to obstruct the doorway or ventilation.
For more permanent structures, consider lining the interior with insulation boards or installing double pane windows. This will prevent heat loss.

Block Wind and Moisture

Face shelter entrances away from prevailing winds whenever possible. This prevents cold gusts from blowing inside.
Use windbreaks like fences, trees, or bales of hay arrange strategically around the shelter. This blocks windchill.
Elevate shelters off wet ground with pallets or a frame. Good drainage is key to keeping interiors dry.
Check for leaks and fill gaps in roofing or siding with caulk. This keeps moisture from seeping in.

Provide Warm Bedding

Use lots of straw, blankets, or beds made for outdoor pets. These should be clean, dry, and raised off the ground.
Refresh bedding regularly to prevent dampness. Cedar shavings also have a pleasant, warm aroma.
Consider safely heating pet beds with microwavable discs or low-wattage heating pads made for animals. Monitor to prevent overheating.

Allow for Ventilation

Leave a window, low opening, or loose tarp edge to allow airflow. This prevents dangerous fumes from building up.
Install wire mesh over openings to keep pests out while permitting ventilation.
Use fans sparingly if temperatures are extreme. Avoid directing cold air onto pets.
Never tightly seal shelters or block vent holes. Proper airflow is vital.

Give Them Warm Bedding

Providing warm, cozy bedding is key to keeping outdoor pets comfortable in winter. Some good options include:

Straw or hay – Excellent insulators that hold in body heat when piled thickly. Keep clean and dry.
Fleece or wool blankets – Retain heat well without getting damp like cotton. Use several layers for added warmth.
Cedar wood shavings – Absorbent, retain warmth, and have a pleasant aroma. Avoid irritating dust.
Heated pet mats – Available electric and microwaveable options maintain soothing warmth. Monitor carefully.
Elevated beds – Raise bed frames off cold ground and fill with insulating material like hay or cedar. Improves warmth.
Igloo style houses – Insulated domes retain body heat, especially when lined with straw or fleece bedding. Provide a cozy retreat.
Waterproof covers – Protect bedding from snow or rain while still permitting airflow underneath. Keep insulation dry.

Routinely wash and replace bedding to prevent mildew or freezing. Ensure heat sources like microwavable discs do not overheat and pose a burn risk. Proper bedding provides a vital heat source for outdoor pets.

Give Them Shelter from the Elements

Outdoor pets need access to shelter large enough for them to move around and contain their body heat. Ideas for shelter include:

Dog houses or igloos – Designed to be warm and weather resistant for pets. Choose models sized appropriately.
Livestock sheds – Provide ample space for large and small pets. Install sturdy doors or flaps to block wind.
Garages or barns – Allow access to a warm, protected stall or space sealed off from drafts and moisture. Install bedding.
Insulated boxes – Use rigid foam boards or styrofoam coolers to make well-insulated shelters. Cut entrance and ventilation holes.
Fenced enclosures – Windbreaks created with fences, fabric, straw bales, or other barriers help block chilling winds.
Heated shelters – Can be purchased or DIY-modified to safely maintain temperatures above freezing inside. Monitor carefully.
Covered porches or patios – Allow pets to stay sheltered while still having outdoor access on milder days.

Adequate shelter is vital to protecting pets from hypothermia, frostbite, and illness. Provide escape from the elements while still allowing ventilation.

Provide Plenty of Fresh Water

Dehydration poses a serious cold weather risk for outdoor pets. Taking steps to provide adequate drinking water is crucial:

Use heated buckets and bowls to prevent freezing. Models with chew-resistant cords are safest.
Frequently refresh water to keep it clean, liquid, and appealing to drink.
Break up ice sheets in buckets and bowls. Avoid using salt which can upset stomachs if ingested.
Place multiple water stations around outdoor areas for easy access.
Use wide, shallow containers which are harder to tip over and less likely to freeze solid.
Prevent drinking water contamination by diverting roof runoff and keeping sources covered.
Consider installing heated pet-friendly outdoor faucets or water hydrants to supply fresh water easily.
Provide clean, liquid water at least 2-3 times daily. More may be needed for active or lactating pets.

Monitoring water sources vigilantly is key to avoiding dangerous wintertime dehydration. Heated and protected bowls are ideal for keeping water thawed.

Increase Their Calorie Intake

The extra energy expended keeping warm means outdoor pets need more calories in winter. Follow these tips:

Feed extra rations – Increase meals by 10-20% over typical portions. Provide ample fuel for generating body heat.
Offer high protein and fat – Meat, eggs, oils, nuts and fish are energy dense and stoke metabolism.
Avoid bulky fillers – Fibrous vegetables and grains can create a false feeling of fullness. Prioritize calorie-rich foods.
Provide snacks – Offer small amounts of healthy treats and leftovers throughout the day for extra calories.
Supplement with gravy – Mixing canned food, broths or warmed oils into kibble adds palatability and calories.
Keep water nearby – Drinking aids digestion and metabolism. Dehydration causes lethargy and appetite loss.

Monitor outdoor pets vigilantly for weight loss which signals calorie needs aren’t being met. Adjust portions and nutrients accordingly to keep them energized and warm.

Groom Them for Winter

A winter coat helps insulate pets against the cold. Follow these grooming tips to help them stay comfortable:

Brush frequently – Removes tangles and loose fur so insulating coats stay neat and effective.
Avoid heavy shaving – Only do light trims if matting is severe. The coat provides vital warmth.
Bathe minimally – Over-bathing strips healthy body oils. Limit to only when very dirty.
Check feet – Trim long fur between paw pads which can trap ice balls. Don’t cut so short as to expose skin.
Clean ears – Prevent moisture buildup which can lead to infections in cold weather.
Brush teeth – Supports oral health and ability to comfortably eat hard, chewy foods.
Trim claws – Prevents painful snagging and makes walking on slick surfaces easier.

Regular grooming ensures pets stay clean, mat-free, and better equipped to endure winter’s cold temperatures and moisture. Never shave down to the skin.

Provide Warm Bedding

One of the best ways to keep outdoor pets warm is to provide them with ample warm bedding:

Straw and hay are excellent insulators. Pile generously and refresh regularly to avoid dampness.
Fleece or wool blankets retain heat well without absorbing moisture like cotton fabrics can. Use several layers for added warmth.
Cedar shavings have a pleasant aroma and support warmth. Ensure they are not irritating dusty.
Heated pet mats are available in plug-in and microwavable options. Monitor carefully to prevent overheating.
Igloo style shelters lined with bedding retain body heat efficiently. The dome shape makes a cozy nest.
Elevated beds allow air circulation under the frame and keep pets up off the cold ground.
Waterproof covers protect bedding from snow or rain while still allowing airflow.

Providing ample, clean bedding is key to keeping outdoor pets comfortable. Routinely change out damp, frozen, or soiled bedding.

Adjust Their Diet Accordingly

The extra energy required to stay warm means outdoor pets need a special winter diet. Here are some tips:

Increase food amounts – Feed 10-20% more over typical rations to provide adequate calories. Monitor for weight loss.
Choose high fat and protein – Diets rich in meat, fish, eggs, oils, and nuts fuel metabolism and generate body heat.
Avoid bulky fillers – Fibrous fruits, veggies and grains can create false fullness. Energy density is key.
Supplement with extras – Provide healthy snacks and calorie-rich leftovers throughout the day.
Mix in gravy or broth – Adding canned food or warm liquids makes kibble more palatable and energy dense.
Ensure easy water access – Prevent dehydration which causes lethargy and appetite reduction. Use heated bowls.

Tailor diets to meet increased cold-weather calorie needs. Offer small, frequent, protein-packed meals and snacks throughout the day.

Protect Extremities from Frostbite

Ears, tails, noses, and feet are vulnerable to frostbite. Safeguard these extremities:

Limit time outdoors – No pet should be left outside for extended periods in extreme cold.
Provide wind protection – Use garments, shelter, fences, or shrub barriers to block chilling winds.
Massage extremities – Rub ears, tail, and paws to stimulate blood flow after time spent in cold temperatures.
Keep ears dry – Gently dry ear canals after swimming or bathing. Prevent painful, dangerous freezing.
Apply balms – Pet-safe waxes create a protective barrier against wind and moisture. Avoid chemical warmers which can burn.
Use booties – Waterproof foot coverings provide insulation and traction on slick surfaces. Monitor for irritation.
Bring pets inside – Immediately come indoors if shivering, whining, or showing signs of labored breathing or slowing down. These indicate distress.

Frostbite can be painful and cause permanent damage. Be vigilant about monitoring extremities for cold injuries. Seek medical care if frostbite is suspected.

Check Their Health Frequently

Vigilantly monitoring health is especially important during winter. Look for:

Weight and appetite changes – If a pet loses weight or stops eating, increase food and calorie intake.
Lethargy or weakness – Being too cold leads to inactivity. Bring pets inside to warm up if exhibiting these signs.
Shivering or whining – Indicates a pet cannot regulate their body temperature. Get them warm immediately.
Labored breathing – Can signal respiratory distress from inhaling freezing air. Limit time outdoors.
Cold ears or paw pads – Get pets inside at the first sign of frost nip. Elevate cold paws to slowly warm.
Odd behavior – Stress or discomfort from the cold can cause unusual aggressiveness, vocalizing, or hiding.

Frequently check for signs of discomfort or frostbite. Seek prompt veterinary care if concerned about any changes that could signal illness. Don’t delay getting help.

Keep Them Active

Exercise generates essential body heat. Keep outdoor pets moving:

Take pets on brisk walks. Go slow enough to avoid overexertion.
Engage in regular play sessions. Catnip toys or playing fetch gets cats and dogs moving.
Place food and water in locations that encourage walking between stations.
Clear paths through snowbanks so they can self-exercise exploring the yard. Supervise to prevent roaming.
Let pets burn energy with free time in a safely fenced area. Monitor in case they get too chilled.
Provide puzzle toys stuffed with treats or kibble. Exercising their mind and body helps fight boredom.

Find fun ways to safely keep pets actively burning calories and producing body heat. Adjust activity levels to prevent exhaustion or overheating.

Know When to Come Indoors

Despite adequate preparation, there will still be times when it is simply too cold for pets to remain outdoors. Bring them inside if:

Temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C)
Windchills fall below 0°F (-18°C)
Signs of frostbite, weakness, or lethargy appear
Snow or ice prevent access to dry shelter
You need to be away from home for extended periods

Use best judgment based on breed, age, health status, and weather conditions. When in doubt, bring pets in for reprieve. Even short intervals indoors provide relief from harsh elements.

Provide a Warm Place to Sleep

All outdoor pets need access to shelter that provides warmth and protection:

Dog houses – Choose an insulated model sized appropriately for the pet. Face the entrance away from wind.
Barns or garages – Allow access to a fully enclosed, dry area kept above freezing. Provide warm bedding inside.
Insulated boxes – Convert a rigid foam cooler or make a shelter from insulation board. Cut entrance and ventilation holes.
Fenced windbreaks – Use fences, fabric, bales, or other barriers to block windchill around shelter.
Heated shelters – Can be purchased or DIY modified to safely maintain above-freezing temperatures inside.
Enclosed porches – Allow pets to stay in an attached, covered space on milder days. Monitor temperature.

Having a warm, dry place to retreat from the elements is essential. Ensure shelters are large enough for pets to move around and contain body heat.

Give Them Plenty of Fresh Water

Preventing winter dehydration is crucial. Here are tips for providing ample water:

Use heated bowls or buckets to prevent freezing. Chew-proof, outdoor-safe models are best.
Frequently refresh water to keep it clean and liquid. Check sources often.
Break up any ice to allow drinking access. Avoid using salt which can upset stomachs.
Place multiple water stations in shaded areas around the yard. Provide easy access.
Use wide, shallow bowls. Narrow, deep containers freeze solid faster.
Prevent contamination from roof runoff by diverting drainage and covering sources.
Install heated pet faucets for easy access to fresh, running water.

Outdoor pets need frequent water refills in winter. Heated, protected bowls provide the best access and help prevent dangerous dehydration.

Watch for Signs of Illness

Winter’s cold, wet conditions create increased risk for certain illnesses. Watch for:

Sneezing, coughing, nose/eye discharge – Could signal respiratory infection. Keep pets rested and contact the vet.
Lethargy, weakness, shivering – Indicators of hypothermia. Bring pets inside immediately and wrap in blankets.
Poor circulation, cold ears/tail – Potential frostbite. Gently warm with blankets and contact vet if tissue damage is suspected.
Skin redness, paw injuries – Signs of chemical or thermal burns if bedding or heating devices are faulty. Provide first aid and call the vet.
Diarrhea or vomiting – Stress and dietary changes can cause digestive upset. Withhold food briefly and contact vet if symptoms persist.
Limping or licking paws – Could mean injury from salt, ice balls, or cold surfaces. Check feet and pads for damage.

Promptly contact your veterinarian regarding any concerns about a pet’s health in winter. Don’t delay getting help.

Keep Paws Clean and Protected

Paw pads and fur easily collect ice, salt, chemicals, and debris. Follow these tips:

Carefully trim excess fur between toe pads where ice balls form. Don’t cut so short as to expose skin.
Rinse and dry paws when coming inside to remove irritants. Check for signs of injury.
Apply protective paw balm or wax before outdoor time. Avoid chemical warmers which can burn skin.
Massage paws after being outside to stimulate circulation and help them warm up.
Use dog boots or socks to protect feet on walks. Monitor for rubbing and irritation.
Clean debris from between paw pads. Watch for limping which could signal a hidden cut.
Restrict time on icy, salty surfaces which can cause painful burns to paw pads.

Regular paw care and protection is key to keeping outdoor pets comfortable walking and safe from cold-weather foot injuries.

Bathe and Brush Them Properly

Special grooming care helps outdoor pets stay clean and properly insulated:

Brush frequently to prevent matting and distribute protective body oils.
Give occasional baths only when truly needed to preserve coat oils.
Trim excess fur only if severely matted. Avoid shaving down to the skin.
Check feet for packed snow and ice. Carefully remove buildup.
Clean ears to prevent moisture and