Bringing home a puppy or kitten is exciting, emotional, and life-changing. But if it’s your first winter as a pet parent, the season can feel overwhelming. Cold weather affects young pets far more than adult animals, and many first-time pet parents underestimate how sensitive puppies and kittens are to winter conditions.
This winter handbook is designed to give you clear, practical, and veterinarian-backed guidance so you can keep your pet warm, healthy, and comfortable through the colder months.
Why Winter Care Is Critical for Puppies and Kittens
Puppies and kittens cannot regulate their body temperature efficiently. Their immune systems are still developing, and exposure to cold, damp conditions can lead to serious health issues.
Common winter risks include:
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Hypothermia
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Respiratory infections
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Joint stiffness and pain
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Skin dryness and dandruff
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Digestive issues due to reduced activity
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Lower immunity leading to frequent illness
Understanding these risks early helps you prevent problems instead of reacting to them later.
Ideal Temperature for Puppies and Kittens in Winter
Young pets feel cold much sooner than humans.
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Puppies and kittens under 6 months should ideally stay in environments above 20°C
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Temperatures below 15°C can be uncomfortable
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Temperatures below 10°C can be dangerous, especially at night
If you feel cold indoors, your pet likely feels colder.
Winter Sleeping Arrangements for Young Pets
Proper sleeping arrangements are one of the most important winter care steps.
What to Do:
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Provide a raised bed away from cold floors
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Use soft bedding, fleece blankets, or orthopedic beds
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Place beds away from doors, windows, and drafts
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Allow puppies and kittens to sleep indoors during winter nights
Avoid:
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Letting young pets sleep on tiles or marble floors
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Outdoor sleeping, even for breeds with thicker coats
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Damp bedding, which traps cold
Winter Clothing: Do Puppies and Kittens Need It?
Yes, many do.
Puppies That Benefit from Winter Clothing:
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Small breeds
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Short-haired breeds
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Puppies under 6 months
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Senior dogs (if you have older pets at home)
Kittens:
While kittens don’t usually wear clothes, indoor warmth is essential. Hairless or short-haired kittens may benefit from soft fleece wraps under supervision.
Always ensure clothing:
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Is breathable
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Does not restrict movement
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Is removed indoors if the pet seems uncomfortable
Winter Diet & Nutrition for Puppies and Kittens
Cold weather increases calorie requirements slightly, but overfeeding is a common mistake.
Feeding Tips:
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Stick to age-appropriate puppy or kitten food
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Do not increase portions drastically without vet advice
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Slightly warm food (never hot) to improve appetite
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Maintain regular feeding schedules
Hydration Matters:
Pets drink less water in winter, increasing the risk of dehydration.
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Always provide fresh, room-temperature water
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Consider wet food to support hydration
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Monitor urine output closely
Bathing & Grooming in Winter: What’s Safe?
Bathing frequency should not be avoided in winter, despite having young pets.
Safe Grooming Practices:
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Bathe 3-4 weeks
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Prefer professional grooming to be cautious
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Dry completely using towels and a low-heat dryer
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Never let a puppy or kitten air-dry in winter
Skin Care:
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Winter causes dryness and itching
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Use vet-approved moisturising shampoos
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Brush regularly to improve blood circulation
Untrimmed fur around paws can trap moisture, leading to fungal infections, so light trimming is helpful.
Winter Walks & Outdoor Time for Puppies
Outdoor exposure is important but should be controlled.
Walking Guidelines:
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Shorter, more frequent walks instead of long ones
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Avoid early mornings and late nights
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Use sweaters or jackets for walks
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Wipe paws after walks to remove dirt and cold residue
Explore Zigly’s exclusive winter collection and select your little furry’s outdoor styles.
If your puppy shivers, lifts paws, or refuses to walk, return indoors immediately.
Common Winter Health Issues in Puppies and Kittens
Watch Out For:
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Persistent coughing or sneezing
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Runny nose or watery eyes
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Lethargy or unusual sleepiness
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Loss of appetite
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Shivering even indoors
These symptoms may indicate respiratory infections or cold-related illness and require prompt veterinary attention.
Vaccinations & Vet Care in Winter
Winter is not a time to delay vaccinations.
Important Reminders:
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Puppies and kittens must follow their vaccination schedule strictly
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Cold weather does not reduce disease risk
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Delayed vaccinations can weaken immunity further
Regular health check-ups help catch seasonal issues early. Some pets may also benefit from supplements for immunity or joint support, only if recommended by a vet.
Connect to expert Vets at Zigly to get appropriate information about your pet’s health.
Keeping Indoor Pets Mentally Active in Winter
Reduced outdoor activity can lead to boredom and behavioral issues.
Mental Stimulation Ideas:
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Interactive toys and puzzles
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Short indoor training sessions
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Food-dispensing toys
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Gentle play sessions
Mental exercise is just as important as physical activity during winter.
Winter Safety Tips Every First-Time Pet Parent Should Know
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Never use heaters where pets can touch wires or heating coils
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Avoid essential oil diffusers; many oils are toxic to pets
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Keep antifreeze and chemicals locked away
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Monitor pets closely around balconies and cold floors
Conclusion
Your first winter as a pet parent does not need to be stressful. With warmth, routine care, proper nutrition, and awareness, puppies and kittens can thrive even during colder months. The key is consistency. Small, daily actions make a big difference in keeping your young pet safe, healthy, and happy throughout winter.
If you ever feel unsure, visit your nearest Zigly Pet Care Centre and consult our vets for timely checkups and prevention.
