How Cold Temperatures Affect St. Louis Pets

As a winter storm settled over St. Louis over the past 48 hours, media sources are making STL residents aware of how the weather has impacted local conditions. In addition to making transit and driving terribly difficult, temperatures also impact our 4-legged kids. Even with fur coats, winter weather and severe storm systems like the one we experienced this week greatly impact our pets. Today, I want to explore how the chilly St. Louis winters and storms can affect our pets. Once you’ve reviewed this blog, click here for my top 10 ways to keep St. Louis pets safe and comfortable when Mother Nature channels Elsa from Frozen!

Joint Stiffness and Discomfort

Many St. Louis pets, especially older ones or those with arthritis, may experience increased joint stiffness and discomfort during cold weather and winter storms. The drop in barometric pressure that often accompanies cold fronts can cause inflammation in joints, leading to pain and reduced mobility. This can be particularly noticeable in dogs that are standing up after resting or first thing in the morning.

Risk of Hypothermia and Frostbite

When temperatures plummet in St. Louis, pets are at risk of hypothermia and frostbite, just like humans. Short-haired breeds, puppies, kittens, and elderly pets are particularly vulnerable. Hypothermia can occur when a pet’s body temperature drops too low, leading to weakness, shivering, and in severe cases, organ failure. What’s interesting is that it doesn’t take a significant drop in body temperature to put pets at risk. According to VeterinaryParner.com, “If the rectal temperature of a dog or cat is below 98°F, the pet is suffering from hypothermia.” A healthy temperature for cats and dogs ranges between 101.0 to 102.5°F.

Frostbite is also a concern, especially for extremities like ears, tails, and paws. When exposed to extreme cold, blood vessels constrict to preserve core body heat in the internal organs in the belly and chest, leaving extremities susceptible to often irreparable tissue damage. The best way to prevent these is to keep pets indoors during extreme temperatures.

Respiratory Issues

The cold, dry air of St. Louis winters can affect pets’ respiratory systems. Dogs, in particular, may experience constriction of their bronchial tubes in icy air, which can exacerbate existing respiratory conditions or even turn a minor infection into pneumonia. Humidifiers help! Just make sure you use distilled water to keep things clean and healthy.

Altered Metabolism

To maintain body heat in cold weather, some pets may need to burn more calories. This increased energy expenditure can lead to weight loss if not compensated for with additional food. However, it’s important to note that not all pets require extra calories, especially if they’re less active during winter. Community cats often require additional calories while indoor cats may not.

Staying indoors enjoying heating and snuggled on the couch during snow days usually doesn’t merit increased calories but daily walks in freezing temps may require a bit more kibble in the bowl. Talk to your vet about your pet’s ideal weight and feed accordingly.

Skin Irritation

The combination of cold temperatures and dry indoor heating can lead to skin irritation in pets. This may manifest as dry, flaky skin or increased itching.

Additionally, the salt and chemicals used to de-ice St. Louis streets can irritate paw pads. These de-icing chemicals are highly toxic and should be wiped off after walks, preventing their ingestion. Learn more about the dangers of ice melt here and consider wiping your pet’s paws after every outing this time of year. Waterless/no-rinse shampoo is a huge help! Dandylion makes a great one with built-in scrubber.

Behavioral Changes

Cold weather can also affect pets’ behavior. Some may become more lethargic or reluctant to go outside for walks or bathroom breaks. Others might seek out warm spots in the house or become more clingy with their owners.

As mentioned above, barometric pressure changes can cause pets to become agitated, depressed, overexcited, etc. The reactions vary by species and individual pet. Observe your pet to see if you can notice any changes in their behavior so you can support them as needed.

How Cold Temperatures Affect St. Louis Pets

By understanding how cold affects our pets, St. Louis pet owners can ensure their furry friends stay safe, healthy, and comfortable throughout the winter months. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. When in doubt, keep them inside where it’s warm and cozy. Check here for the top 10 precautions we take as professional pet care providers – because your pets’ safety and comfort are our priority no matter who is on the other end of the leash!

At 4-Legged Kids, Inc., our award-winning dog walking and pet sitting services are tailored to meet your and your pets’ needs. Call 636-405-0400 or email ask@4leggedkids.com to register. Existing clients, please request services here.

We look forward to welcoming your pets into the 4-Legged Kids Inc. family. We hope you are safe and warm as the storm runs its course.

Janie Budnick

Janie founded 4-Legged Kids, Inc in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1997 and provides education through her PetBizHIVE podcast and her PetBizMBA membership and courses. She is a Certified Professional Animal Care Operator, Fear Free certified and a Certified Professional Pet Sitter. Learn more about the Founder, Janie Budnick.