The severe threat of an ice and possibly snow event this weekend in North Carolina has led the governor to declare a state of emergency. Because below-freezing temperatures and inclement weather often mean changes in your pets’ routines, we asked our experts for tips on keeping them safe. 

For dogs, Dr. Mariea Ross Estrada, small animal primary care clinician, recommends:

• Limit the length of walks when the temperature is below freezing to decrease risk of frostbite to ears, toes and tails. 
• Provide coats for dogs that will be more sensitive to low temperatures (puppies, small breeds, short coats, geriatric and elderly dogs).
• Dry off fur – especially paws – once inside from a walk if the dog gets wet to avoid losing body heat.
• Check your dog’s paws for ice or irritation around the pads. Cracked paws are uncomfortable and can get infected. Wash paw pads with room-temperature water and smooth petroleum jelly on them.

For indoor, outdoor and community cats, our Feline Health Center recommends:

For indoor/outdoor cats

• Have litter pans available inside, even if your cat normally goes outside, since ice or snow might deter them from urinating outside.
• Check places your cat might get stuck (sheds, garages) before locking or preparing the places for inclement weather. Your cats might be taking refuge there!
• Make sure your cat has access to nonfrozen water when the temperature drops below freezing.

For feral or community cats

• Research how to make weather-proof cat shelters for feral and community cats. Be sure to use straw over hay to prevent soggy bedding. Straw repels moisture and keeps cats warmer and dryer.
• Put cat food on tortillas instead of directly on the ground if you’re feeding community cats. Tortillas act like a paper plate and keep the food from getting soggy or dirty – plus they’re biodegradable and may be eaten by other animals after the cats are finished.
• Tap the hood of your car or do a quick once-over before you get in because outdoor cats and kittens may seek shelter in warm car engines or tires.

For horses and farm animals, Dr. Bethanie Cooper, a part of our Equine Ambulatory Emergency Service, recommends:

• Encourage your animals to drink. Horses should drink 6 to 12 gallons of water per day. Some horses prefer warm water, but you can also try adding salt, gatorade powder or a small amount of senior grain to encourage drinking.
• Additionally, make sure they have constant access to liquid water when the temperature drops below freezing.
• Try to stick to your animal’s routine if possible. If they’re used to staying outside and have shelter, hay and water available, allow them to go outside.
• If your horse is blanketed, make sure it isn’t sweaty or wet under the blanket.
• Provide plenty of hay, as digestion of hay serves as an internal heater. That said, do not introduce new hay or change the type of hay.