The winter months can be dry and dreary, but that doesn’t mean that your pet’s coat needs to be. Proper pet grooming habits may need a little TLC in the winter, but maintaining pet coat health is definitely doable. Oroville Animal Health Center is here to share our winter pet grooming advice.
Winter Pet Grooming Considerations
Your pet’s coats need care year-round, but the winter months can bring some special considerations to light. When thinking about your pet’s grooming routine, consider:
- Cooler temperatures
- Exposure risk
- Lower humidity levels
- The drying nature of artificial heat
- Irritants like ice melt
- Ice and snow on paws
- Decreased wear on nails
- Slippery surfaces
Thinking about these seasonally-specific challenges can help you to hone in on providing the best care for your pet. Every season comes with unique considerations, and the winter months are no different.
Grooming Tips for Cold Weather
Maintaining pet coat health and skin hydration during the winter comes down to being smart with your grooming habits. Our team’s favorite tips for winter grooming include:
- Good coat maintenance — Our pets rely on their coat to provide insulation from the cold weather. Avoid trimming them short, and brush frequently to remove dead undercoat and improve air flow. Avoid bathing too often to prevent the stripping of natural oils, and be sure to dry your pet thoroughly. When you bathe your pet, use a gentle hydrating shampoo. Conditioning regularly can also combat the dry weather. A home humidifier can also combat dry skin in pets during the winter.
- Paws need care, too — Snow, ice, and salt can irritate a pet’s paws. Check paws often for cracks or irritation, and consider applying paw balm or protective wax. Trim long hair between toes to prevent ice from accumulating, and clean paws to remove irritants after a walk.
- Check your pet’s nails — Pets often exercise less during winter, so nails may not wear down as quickly. Regular trimming allows your pet to have better traction and to walk more comfortably.
Cold weather grooming is often more vital to a pet’s comfort and well-being than any other time of the year. If you need help with your pet’s winter routine, do not hesitate to contact us. We are happy to help your pet to maintain a healthy, shiny, and comfortable coat throughout the winter.