Winter Care Tips for Dogs and Cats
By Jordan Midea
Pet SuppliesWinter changes more than the weather. For dogs and cats, colder temperatures, dry air, and shorter days can quietly affect comfort, health, and daily routines. Paws dry out faster, joints feel stiffer, and reduced outdoor activity can throw off exercise and feeding patterns. That is why proactive care matters during the colder months. Small adjustments made early can prevent bigger issues later. This expert guide offers practical, easy-to-follow tips to help pet owners keep dogs and cats warm, comfortable, and thriving all winter long.
Winter-Proof Their Comfort Zone
Cold weather changes how pets rest, sleep, and recover, so comfort becomes more than a nice-to-have. It is a daily need. During winter, dogs and cats look for warmth and security, especially when temperatures drop, and drafts creep in. Setting up soft, insulated bedding in draft-free corners gives them a place to fully relax. PetSmart offers winter-ready beds, self-warming mats, and cozy blankets designed to retain body heat without overheating.
Heating can help, but safety comes first. Stick to pet-safe warming pads and enclosed heaters, and keep cords well out of reach. For pets that still spend time outdoors, limit exposure and provide sheltered areas lined with blankets or straw for insulation. After walks, always dry paws and fur to prevent chills and skin irritation.
A few thoughtful adjustments go a long way. With the right bedding, safe warmth, and winter-smart habits, you help your pets stay comfortable, calm, and cared for all season long.
PetSmart Picks
K&H Pet Bed Warmer
Turn any pet bed into a cozy retreat with the K&H Pet Bed Warmer. This slim insert fits inside most beds and plugs in easily for steady, gentle warmth. Dual thermostats use low wattage to raise the bed surface about 10 to 15 degrees above room temperature, then warm to a comforting 102°F when your pet settles in. MET safety listed and ideal for year-round indoor use. Give your pet a warmer nap spot today and add it to your cart now.
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Top Paw® Striped Dog Sweater
Bring on sweater weather with the Top Paw® Striped Dog Sweater, designed for cozy days and cute photo moments. This sleeveless sweater slips on easily, keeping your dog comfy without slowing them down. The soft fabric feels gentle against the fur, while the built-in leash hole makes walks simple and fuss-free. Perfect for fall outings, family gatherings, and casual strolls. Available exclusively at PetSmart, this seasonal favorite is ready to upgrade your dog’s wardrobe.
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Pet Parents® Pawtect® Pet Blanket
Meet the blanket that works as hard as your pet plays. The Pet Parents® Pawtect® Pet Blanket uses WickQuick® fabric to pull moisture down and away, while the Sherpup® waterproof layer keeps spills from reaching furniture or floors. It feels plush and cozy on top, yet stays strong with reinforced edges made to last. Ideal for couches, beds, cars, or crates.
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Shield Those Toes and Tails - Winter Paw and Skin Protection That Works
Cold sidewalks, icy patches, and de-icing salts can quietly damage your pet’s paws and skin during winter. That’s why protection matters more than ever. Dog booties create a strong barrier against ice and chemicals while keeping paws warm and clean. For pets that refuse footwear, paw balms step in as a solid backup, helping moisturize pads and reduce cracking before and after walks.
You’ll find plenty of winter-ready paw care options at PetSmart, designed specifically for seasonal protection. Grooming also plays a big role. Trimming fur around paws prevents ice buildup, while regular brushing supports healthy skin and coat circulation. When you combine booties, balms, and steady grooming, winter stops being harsh and starts feeling manageable, comfortable, and safe for your pet.
PetSmart Picks
Arcadia Trail™ Year-Round All-Terrain Dog Boots
Built for dogs who love the outdoors, Arcadia Trail™ Year-Round All-Terrain Dog Boots deliver comfort, grip, and protection on every adventure. The traction sole handles rough ground with confidence, while adjustable straps and a toggle cord create a secure, high ankle fit. Reflective stitching adds visibility after dark, and the extended sole guards paws and nails. Comes with a handy storage bag for easy travel. Gear up your dog today and head out ready for anything.
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Top Paw® Nose & Paw Dog Balm
Winter air can be tough on your dog’s nose and paws. Cold temps, dry wind, and indoor heating often lead to cracking and irritation. Top Paw® Nose & Paw Dog Balm helps soothe and restore dry skin with a gentle vitamin complex made for daily winter care. The unscented formula stays kind to sensitive dogs, and skips sulfates, parabens, and artificial colors. Keep your pup comfortable through the cold season.
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Only Natural Pet® Tushy Wipes
Only Natural Pet Tushy Wipes are a must-have winter care essential for dogs. These wipes use 100% bamboo towelettes infused with soothing shea butter and aloe vera to deliver gentle cleansing for sensitive skin. Cold months bring muddy paws, wet fur, and everyday messes. Tushy Wipes help keep your pet clean and fresh between baths without harsh sulfates, parabens, and artificial colors. The light coconut scent adds a pleasant touch while avoiding strong fragrances. Perfect for quick cleanups after walks or outdoor play. Each pack includes 80 durable bamboo wipes. Find this trusted dog care favorite only at PetSmart.
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Fuel the Cold-Weather Engine - Smart Winter Nutrition for Pets
When temperatures drop, your pet’s body works harder to stay warm, which means nutrition matters more than ever. Dogs and cats may need calorie adjustments during winter, but the approach depends on their lifestyle. Outdoor pets often burn more energy and may require slightly higher portions, while indoor pets can be prone to quiet weight gain when walks and playtime slow down. Keeping an eye on body condition helps you adjust before small changes turn into problems.
Hydration still plays a big role, even when pets are not panting as much. Always offer fresh, unfrozen water, especially for pets that spend time outside. Dry indoor air can also contribute to dehydration, so frequent bowl checks are a simple habit that goes a long way. Many pet parents also add seasonal supplements to support joints, skin, and immune health. Omega-3 fatty acids and veterinarian-recommended vitamins can help pets stay comfortable and active through colder months.
PetSmart makes winter nutrition easier by offering cold-weather formulas, supplements, and feeding tools designed for seasonal care. With the right balance of calories, consistent hydration, and targeted support, your dog or cat can stay strong, energized, and ready to enjoy winter safely and comfortably.
PetSmart Picks
Wellness® Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food – Natural
Support everyday vitality with Wellness® Complete Health Adult Dry Dog Food. Made with carefully selected natural ingredients, this recipe delivers whole body nutrition powered by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, probiotics, glucosamine, and taurine for heart and joint support. Crafted by veterinarians and nutrition experts, it fuels dogs of all sizes with balanced, great-tasting meals made in the USA. Choose the protein your dog loves and make every bowl count. Switch to Wellness today and nourish them for life.
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K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Cafe
Keep outdoor cats fed and hydrated even on freezing days with the K&H Pet Products Thermo-Kitty Cafe. This heated feeding station stops food and water from freezing using smart thermostatic control that turns on only when needed. Two removable stainless steel bowls make refilling and cleaning easy, while sealed electronics and a durable cord add peace of mind. Ideal for feral and community cats all winter long. Add one today and care for cats through the cold.
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Nutramax® Welactin Omega-3 Soft Chews
Support your pet’s daily wellness with Nutramax® Welactin Omega-3 Soft Chews. This trusted supplement delivers omega-3 fatty acids that help maintain healthy skin and a shiny coat while supporting immune and overall health. Made by Nutramax Laboratories Veterinary Sciences, these soft chews are easy to give and fit right into your pet’s routine. A simple daily boost can make a real difference. Add Welactin to your cart today and support your pet from the inside out.
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Keep Them Moving Without the Slip-Ups
Winter may shrink outdoor time, but your pet still needs daily movement to stay healthy and balanced. When cold or icy weather limits walks, shift the action indoors with toys, tunnels, laser pointers, or interactive games that encourage safe play. Short, daylight walks still matter when conditions allow, since fresh air and routine help regulate mood and energy. Keep sessions brief and watch for slippery surfaces so exercise stays enjoyable, not risky.
Just as important, pair physical movement with mental stimulation. Puzzle feeders, short training sessions, and simple games like hide-and-seek challenge your pet’s brain while burning energy. Adjust activity levels based on weather and your pet’s age, breed, and health. The goal is consistency, not intensity. By mixing indoor play, cautious outdoor exercise, and engaging mental challenges, you’ll help your dog or cat stay active, content, and well cared for all winter long.
PetSmart Picks
Keep Them Moving Without the Slip-Ups
Winter routines often mean less outdoor time and quicker meals indoors. That’s where smarter feeding helps. Using a slow feeder during colder months encourages steady eating, which supports digestion when pets are less active. The puzzle design keeps dogs mentally engaged, turning mealtime into gentle enrichment instead of rushed gulping. Soft, paw friendly materials make it safe for daily use, even for eager winter eaters. Keep routines balanced, bellies comfortable, and winter days a little more active indoors.
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Armarkat 58-in Classic Faux Fur Real Wood Cat Kitten Climbing Tree
Winter keeps cats indoors longer, so safe movement and daily activity matter more than ever. This multi-level cat tree gives your cat a cozy, stable space to climb, stretch, and play without slippery floors. Soft faux fur adds warmth, while sturdy wood construction and sisal wrapped posts support scratching and exercise. With perches and a condo for rest, it keeps indoor cats active, comfortable, and content throughout the colder months.
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Chuckit!® Ultra Ball® Tough Dog Toy – 2 Pack
Cold days don’t have to slow playtime down. The Chuckit!® Ultra Ball® keeps fetch exciting all winter long with a high bounce, long throw, and tough natural rubber built for serious games. It floats for snowy puddles or beach-style fun and stays easy to spot outdoors. Perfect for burning off extra energy when daylight is short. Grab the two-pack and keep fetch going strong all season long.
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Spot the Silent Winter Risks Before They Escalate
Cold weather brings hazards that are easy to miss but serious when ignored. Hypothermia can develop quickly in freezing temperatures, especially for small, senior, or short-haired pets, so outdoor time should be brief and supervised. Frostbite often targets ears, tails, and paws, making it essential to dry pets thoroughly after walks and avoid lingering on snow or ice. Even chilly drafts indoors can affect comfort, so warm, supportive resting areas matter more than you think.
Winter also introduces hidden dangers inside and outside the home. Antifreeze is highly toxic, even in small amounts, so store it securely and clean spills right away. Cold temperatures can aggravate joint stiffness and arthritis, particularly in older dogs and cats, which makes orthopedic bedding and vet-approved supplements helpful. By staying alert to these seasonal risks and adjusting care early, you protect your pets from preventable winter emergencies and keep them comfortable through the cold months.
PetSmart Picks
Only Natural Pet® Hemp Hip & Joint Support for Dogs
Winter can feel rough on aging joints and stiff hips. Only Natural Pet® Hemp Hip & Joint Support Soft Chews help keep dogs moving comfortably when cold weather slows them down. Formulated by holistic veterinarians, these THC-free chews use hemp seed, turmeric, and green lipped mussels to support joint function and a healthy inflammation response. No artificial fillers, just clean support your dog can trust. Add it to your winter wellness routine and help your dog stay active and comfortable all season long.
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Morton® Safe-T-Pet® Ice Melt
Winter sidewalks and driveways can turn risky fast. Morton® Safe-T-Pet® Ice Melt clears ice and snow without using plain salt, making it a smarter choice for homes with pets. Developed with veterinarians, it’s designed to be safer for paws, people, plants, and common surfaces. It works in cold conditions down to 10°F, helping keep walkways secure during winter weather. Spread with confidence this season and keep every step safer. Add it to your winter prep list today.
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Top Paw® Reflective Dog Collar
Shorter days and darker walks call for extra visibility. The Top Paw® Reflective Dog Collar adds a layer of safety during winter outings while keeping your dog looking sharp. Made from durable nylon, it features reflective details that help your dog stay seen in low light. The adjustable fit keeps it comfortable, and the snap buckle with a metal D ring makes leashing up quick and secure. Available exclusively at PetSmart. Upgrade your dog’s winter walks today.
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Winter care is all about staying one step ahead of the season. By keeping pets warm, protecting paws and skin, adjusting nutrition, maintaining safe activity, and watching for seasonal health risks, you create a routine that supports comfort and long-term health. Small changes make a big difference when temperatures drop. With trusted essentials and expert-backed solutions from PetSmart, you can head into winter confident that your dogs and cats are protected, comfortable, and thriving all season long.