Winter can be surprisingly hard on our pets. Just like humans, dogs and cats feel the bite of colder temperatures in their joints, especially if they’re senior, overweight, recovering from an old injury, or living with arthritis. What many pet parents don’t realise is that joint pain often shows up subtly at first. You’ll rarely see your pet cry out or limp dramatically on day one. The signs are quite easy to miss and often brushed off as “just winter laziness.”
But catching the discomfort early can make a world of difference to your pet’s mobility and quality of life through the colder months. Below is a practical guide to understanding winter joint pain in pets, how it shows up, what you can do at home, and when it’s time to involve a vet.
Early Signs of Winter Joint Pain
Pets don’t complain or tell us where it’s hurting, so naturally they show us with their changed behaviour.These are the signs pet parents consistently report during winter check-ups:
1. Difficulty getting up & lie down
If your dog or cat takes a moment to “warm up” their legs after resting, that's often the earliest sign that you need to consider. You might notice stiffness in the morning or after a nap.
2. Difficulty climbing Stairs or Jumps
Reluctance to climb onto the sofa, jump off the bed, or use stairs isn't something they naturally decide to stop. It’s often a sign of discomfort and pain.
3. No Excitement for Outdoor Walks
Pets who used to tug at the leash may now walk slower or want to cut walks short.
4. Visible Stiffness in Cold Weather
Cold floors, cold mornings, and cold winds make stiffness more pronounced. Many pet parents say things worsen after a cold bath.
5. Subtle Posture Changes
Arched backs, slightly hunched bodies, or favouring one side can signal joint or muscular pain.
6. They don’t like your touch
If your pet suddenly reacts when you touch its hips, knees, or lower back, it may be because those areas are sore.
7. Behavioural Changes
Some pets become quieter and prefer resting more, while others may get grumpy, pain affects each pet differently.
Things to Do at Home: Practical Winter Joint Care
While joint pain needs proper assessment, there’s a lot you can start doing at home to make daily life easier for your furry companion
1. Keep Them Warm
Warmth makes joints move easily.
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Use soft bedding away from cold floors.
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Add sweaters or jackets for dogs who tolerate them.
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Avoid cold-water baths in winter.
2. Short, Frequent Walks
This keeps the joints moving without overloading them. Most vets recommend 2–3 shorter walks instead of one long stretch in winter.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Extra weight directly impacts joint stress. Winter tends to make pets less active, so adjust feeding portions if needed.
4. Introduce Joint Supplements
Consult your vet for joint formulas that can offer support over time. You can reach out to Zigly Vet Care for professional guidance for your furry one.
5. Physiotherapy
Slow stretching, controlled leash walks, and warm compresses can provide relief.
But if your pet has never done physiotherapy before, start only after a vet’s guidance.
When It’s Time to See a Vet
Some signs cannot be managed at home and need professional attention:
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The stiffness is getting worse each week
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Limps are noticeable
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They refuse walks or play completely
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They are unable to get up on their own
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Swelling or heat around joints
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History of a fall or injury
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Senior pets whose mobility suddenly changes
Early medical help prevents long-term damage. And with winters, symptoms often worsen faster than expected.
How Zigly Supports Pets With Joint Pain
At Zigly, we see a spike in joint-related cases every winter, especially among senior dogs, large breeds, and pets with existing mobility issues. Here's how we help:
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Vet Consultations
Our veterinarians assess mobility, joint health, weight issues, and inflammation.
If needed, they recommend diagnostics like X-rays or blood tests, along with a personalised care plan.
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Physiotherapy for Arthritis, Hip Dysplasia & Post-Surgery Pets
Zigly centres offer dedicated pet physiotherapy sessions that include:
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Heat therapy
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Range-of-motion exercises
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Strengthening routines
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Laser therapy (in select centres)
These can significantly improve comfort and mobility during winter.
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Emergency Care (Available 24/7 in Select Zigly Centres)
For sudden lameness, injuries, or severe joint pain episodes, some Zigly centres provide 24/7 emergency support so your pet gets help when they need it most.
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Grooming Comfort Add-ons
In winters, many pets struggle with cold baths or slippery grooming tables.
Zigly’s trained groomers use warm water, gentle handling, and safe surfaces for senior pets or those with mobility issues.
Conclusion
Every pet is different. Some may need simple lifestyle tweaks, while others require ongoing physiotherapy and vet monitoring. The key is not to ignore “mild stiffness” or brush it off as age. Your pet's body is telling you something. The earlier you act, the better they move and the happier their winter becomes. Visit your nearest Zigly Pet Care Centre and give your furry little one the right winter care.
