Winters bring cozy blankets, warm meals, and slower mornings for us and our pets. But while the season feels comforting, it can be surprisingly harsh on your pet’s skin, coat, and overall hygiene if grooming routines aren’t adjusted. Dry air, lower temperatures, and reduced bathing often lead to issues like flaky skin, excessive shedding, dull coats, and even infections if grooming is neglected.
Winter grooming isn’t about overdoing things, it’s about doing the right things, at the right frequency, with the right products.
Winter grooming essentials for pets include regular brushing, limited but moisturising baths, skin hydration, paw and nail care, and proper drying. Cold weather and dry air can cause flaky skin, matting, and discomfort if grooming is ignored. At Zigly, winter grooming focuses on skin health and comfort using gentle, vet-approved care and premium grooming products. here’s a complete guide to winter grooming essentials that actually matter.
Why Winter Grooming Needs Special Attention
During winter, pets experience:
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Dry air that strips natural oils from the skin
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Reduced outdoor activity, leading to matting and dirt buildup
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Thicker coats that trap moisture if not dried properly
At Zigly Pet Care, winter months often bring in pets with flaky skin, itching, ear infections, and paw cracks, all of which are preventable with mindful grooming.
Winter grooming isn’t about overdoing things. It’s about maintaining skin health while protecting natural insulation.
Brushing: Your Pet’s Winter Lifeline
Brushing is the most important grooming habit during winter.
Why brushing matters:
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Spreads natural oils across the coat
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Prevents matting that traps moisture
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Improves blood circulation and warmth
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Reduces excessive shedding indoors
How often should you brush?
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Short-haired pets: 2–3 times a week
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Long-haired or double-coated pets: Daily or alternate days
Using gentle, coat-appropriate brushes is key. You can explore Zigly’s grooming range Fur Pro that recommend pairing regular brushing with grooming tools and coat-care products, which are designed to be effective without irritating sensitive winter skin.
Bathing in Winter: Less Frequent, More Nourishing
Yes, pets still need baths in winter, but frequency and products matter more than ever.
Winter bathing guidelines:
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Once every 3–4 weeks, unless advised by a vet
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Puppies and senior pets may need fewer baths
What to keep in mind:
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Always use lukewarm water
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Avoid harsh or medicated shampoos unless prescribed
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Choose moisturising, soap-free formulas
At Zigly Pet Care, winter baths are paired with deep-conditioning and proper blow-drying, ensuring moisture doesn’t stay trapped in the coat. Gentle shampoos and grooming solutions are specially curated for this purpose, gentle, nourishing, and safe for regular seasonal use.
Dry Skin Care: The Most Common Winter Issue
If your pet is scratching more than usual, winter dryness could be the culprit.
Signs to watch out for:
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Flaky or powdery skin
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Redness or irritation
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Excessive licking or itching
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Dull, rough coat
How Zigly recommends managing dry skin:
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Switch to gentle shampoos
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Use pet-safe moisturising sprays or balms
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Support skin health through nutrition, often with vet-approved supplements
Paw Care: Small Step, Big Difference
Cold floors, rough surfaces, and dry weather can crack paw pads quickly.
Winter paw-care essentials:
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Check paws daily for cracks or redness
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Apply paw balm before walks
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Wipe paws with a warm, damp cloth after outdoor exposure
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Trim excess fur between paw pads
At Zigly, we often notice that consistent paw care dramatically reduces winter discomfort, and Fur Pro paw care kit is formulated to protect without making paws greasy or slippery indoors.
Nail Trimming: Winter Slows Natural Wear
With fewer walks, nails don’t file down naturally during winter.
Overgrown nails can cause:
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Joint discomfort
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Slipping on smooth floors
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Painful breaks or splits
Trim nails every 2–3 weeks, or opt for professional grooming at Zigly if your pet is anxious or you’re unsure. Grooming sessions also allow early detection of paw and joint issues.
Ear & Eye Hygiene: Quiet Problems, Big Impact
Winter infections often go unnoticed.
Ear care:
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Clean ears weekly with vet-recommended solutions
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Never insert cotton buds into the ear canal
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Watch for bad odour or head shaking
Eye care:
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Gently wipe discharge with a clean cloth
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Long-haired pets may need trimming around the eyes
At Zigly, routine grooming often helps catch early signs of infections before they turn into serious issues.
Special Winter Grooming for Puppies & Senior Pets
Puppies:
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Avoid frequent baths
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Focus on brushing and spot cleaning
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Keep grooming sessions short and positive
Senior pets:
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Dry skin and joint stiffness are common
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Gentle brushing improves circulation
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Warm grooming environments are essential
Zigly’s trained groomers are equipped to handle age-specific needs, using mild products that prioritize comfort and safety.
When Professional Grooming Becomes the Better Choice
At-home grooming is greatmbut winter is when professional grooming adds real value.
Grooming at Zigly ensures:
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Coat trimming without affecting insulation
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Thorough drying to prevent infections
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Skin and coat health checks
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Stress-free handling for anxious pets
It’s not just about looks, it’s about seasonal care done right.
Conclusion
Winter grooming is not about vanity. It’s about keeping your pet comfortable, itch-free, and healthy during a challenging season. With regular brushing, thoughtful bathing, proper paw care, and the right products, available at Zigly, you can make winter truly cozy for your furry companion. Visit your nearest pet care centre or book an appointment online.
