We’re in the thick of the winter season and there’s a lot to be excited about. Snow days. Hot chocolate. Cozying-up for nostalgic winter movies. But for pet families, the cold weather complicates things a bit. As the seasons change, so does the way you care for your pets…or does it? Let’s clear up all the uncertainty about pet care this time of year.
Here at Wondercide, we’re about wellness across the board, which is why we feel it’s so important to take extra care of your pets when the weather gets harsher. We’re debunking myths about winter pet care and revealing the truth to help you and your furry pal thrive this cold season.
Myth or Fact? Not All Pets Have Fur That Keeps Them Warm.
Fact!
- Myth: Pets don’t need extra protection from the cold because their fur insulates them.
- Truth: Short-haired or thin-coated pets are especially vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia. Even thick-coated breeds can struggle in extreme cold.
- Wondercide Tip: Dress your pet in sweaters or jackets during cold weather and limit their exposure to freezing temperatures.
Myth or Fact? Fleas and Ticks Can Survive in Winter.
Fact!
- Myth: Fleas and ticks die off in cold weather.
- Truth: Fleas and ticks can survive indoors, and some ticks remain active in temperatures as low as 40°F. They can still infest your home and pets during the winter months.
- Wondercide Tip: Use Wondercide’s Flea & Tick Spray year-round to protect your pets and home from these persistent pests. Our products are cruelty-free and safe around pets and people when used as directed so you can have peace of mind using them around the ones you love.
Myth or Fact? Road Salt and Ice Can Hurt Paws.
Fact!
- Myth: Pet paws are tough enough to handle winter surfaces.
- Truth: Ice, salt, and other chemicals can irritate or injure paw pads. Cracking, burns, and infections are common in winter without proper care.
- Wondercide Tip: Be on paw patrol! Clean your pet’s paws after walks and use a natural paw balm to soothe and protect them.
Myth or Fact? Pets Need Hydration in Winter, Too.
Fact!
- Myth: Pets drink less water in winter because they don’t feel as thirsty.
- Truth: Pets can easily become dehydrated in winter due to dry indoor heating and lower humidity levels. Hydration is as important in winter as in summer.
- Wondercide Tip: Provide fresh water daily and consider adding wet food or pet-safe broths to encourage hydration.
Myth or Fact? Bugs Can Still Be a Problem in Winter.
Fact!
- Myth: Bugs like cockroaches, ants, fleas, and other bugs disappear during the winter.
- Truth: Many pests survive winter by moving indoors or staying active during cold weather.
- Wondercide Tip: Protect your home with Wondercide Indoor Pest Control, a plant-powered way to manage pests even in the colder months. There are many winter bugs on the hunt this season, and Wondercide is here to help banish them.
Myth or Fact? Cats Need Winter Protection, Too.
Fact!
- Myth: Cats are independent and naturally better at handling the cold than dogs.
- Truth: Cats are just as vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia as dogs. Outdoor cats need insulated shelters or should be kept indoors during extreme cold.
- Wondercide Tip: Provide a warm, safe space for outdoor cats or make a habit of keeping your cat inside during winter.
Myth or Fact? Not All Essential Oils Are Safe for Pets.
Fact!
- Myth: All essential oils are beneficial for pets and help soothe them.
- Truth: Some essential oils, such as tea tree or eucalyptus, can be toxic to pets. Always use products designed specifically for animals.
- Wondercide Tip: It can be difficult to decipher which oils are safe for our furry friends. Wondercide's pet products are made with steam-distilled natural essential oils and we further test for purity. Then, we properly dilute the essential oils in our solutions.
Myth or Fact? Pets Need Exercise Year-Round.
Fact!
- Myth: Pets don’t need as much exercise during the winter.
- Truth: Regular exercise is essential for your pet’s physical and mental health, regardless of the season. Lack of activity can lead to boredom, weight gain, and behavioral issues.
- Wondercide Tip: Plan fun indoor activities or bundle up for a safe outdoor walk. Use Wondercide’s Flea & Tick Spray for added protection during winter outings.
Myth or Fact? Pets can get sick in the winter.
Fact!
- Myth: Pets can’t develop illnesses like humans do during the winter.
- Truth: Pets can run into a number of diseases such as kennel cough, frostbite, hypothermia, flu, pneumonia, and arthritis due to colder temperatures.
- Wondercide Tip: Keep your pups warm! Always bundle them up in a coat if they need one, and take them for shorter walks in extreme temperatures.
While winter can add fun snowy days to our calendar, it’s important to keep in mind the nuances of winter to boost wellness. Pamper pets with warm cuddles, protection from fleas and ticks, and everything they need to brave the cold.
