So far, our winter has been pretty mild. Actually, I really like brown winters. This isn't popular with people who enjoy (true) winter activities. However, for the animals, this must be easier to bear. I think of the outdoor cats and dogs, the birds, bunnies, etc. Perhaps, and I don't know for sure, the animals that hibernate are confused. Is this just the beginning of winter?
If you have outdoor pets, check the following:
1. Do they have enough meat on their bones? Feel under their fur to see if you can feel the rib cage, spine, hips. Long winter hair and fur can give a false impression that all is well and they are doing fine. If they are thin, increase the groceries. They need more to maintain a healthy body weight.
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2. Do they have a steady supply of fresh drinkable (not frozen) water? Although animals may eat snow it doesn't supply an adequate amount of water to keep them healthy.
3. Is their enough bedding and is it dry? Check it out. If the bedding is flattened down and/or damp, it will be much harder for your pets to stay warm.
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4. Is the shelter lower than the ground? Does the entrance set so low that rain and snow can run into the bed? Is there a flap on the door to prevent the wind from blowing in?
5. Has some other critter taken up residence in the pet shelter? If yes, your pet may lay outside and you think it's where your pet wants to be. Perhaps not. If another critter has claimed the pet shelter as its own, you will need to "insist" it move out. If you need advice, talk to animal control for ideas.
6. Has the feces around the pet shelter deepened? If yes, then get out the shovel.
7. Has your pets toenails grown so long they will start growing into the skin or pads of the feet? Ever had an ingrown toenail? Not pleasant.
8. Is the fur matted? Matted fur will not retain heat as well as a clean, unmatted coat.
9. If your pet is confined, is it getting adequate exercise? If no, then bundle up and get ready to rumble. Check the collar to make sure it isn't too tight!
10. If you have outdoor living cats, do they have adequate shelter? Is the bedding dry and free of unwanted pests?
11. Some cats cannot be handled. Make sure they have an adequate amount of good food and fresh, unfrozen water to drink. If you do not want to leave food out overnight because of coons, possums, rats etc. then pick the food up at night. Make sure to fill those dishes and put them back in the feeding areas so your pets can eat during the day. They need food to generate heat.
