Winter Wellness Tips for North Hollywood Pets

Even in North Hollywood, the shift to winter can bring subtle changes that affect your pet’s health and comfort. Cooler mornings, drier air, and shorter daylight hours can all influence how pets feel, especially seniors or pets with chronic conditions like arthritis. At Sweet Home Veterinary Hospital, we believe every pet deserves to feel their best year-round, and winter is a great time to fine-tune your pet’s wellness routine.

What Should I Do For My Pet During Winter?

While we may not have huge snowbanks or freezing temps, winter in SoCal still brings changes that can impact your pet’s joints, skin, and overall behavior. 

Watch for Signs of Joint Stiffness

Arthritis tends to flare up in colder months, even in mild climates. You may notice your pet hesitating to jump on the couch, lagging behind on walks, or appearing stiff after naps.

Wellness Tip: If your pet shows these signs, let us know. Sweet Home Veterinary Hospital offers gentle treatments like laser therapy and acupuncture for cats and dogs suffering from arthritis and joint inflammation in cold weather.

Maintain a Healthy Activity Routine

With fewer daylight hours and cooler temps, many pets get less exercise during winter, which can lead to weight gain and muscle stiffness.

Wellness Tip: Keep your pet moving with indoor play, gentle walks, or interactive toys. Maintaining muscle tone supports joint health and boosts your animal companion’s mood, too.

Don’t Forget Hydration

Pets should be drinking plenty of water at all times of the year, even when it’s cooler and they might not think to.

Wellness Tip: Encourage drinking with multiple water bowls, pet fountains, or wet food options. 

Protect Skin and Coat Health

Drier air can affect your pet’s skin just like it does yours, causing flakes, itchiness, or a dull coat.

Wellness Tip: Use pet-safe moisturizing shampoos and avoid over-bathing during the winter months. If your cat or dog is having coat issues, ask us about their routine and, potentially, supplements.

Provide Warm, Comfy Resting Areas

Older pets, in particular, benefit from extra cushioning and warmth during the winter. Cold floors can exacerbate arthritis symptoms and decrease comfort.

Wellness Tip: Use padded beds, blankets, and raised resting spots away from drafts to support better sleep and joint function.

Prioritize Parasite Prevention

Just because it’s cooler doesn’t mean parasites disappear. Fleas and ticks are active year-round in California, and heartworm prevention should never pause.

Wellness Tip: Stay on track with monthly preventives and schedule your pet’s annual wellness exam to catch any early signs of illness.

Experienced Guidance for Pet Owners in North Hollywood, CA

Taking a proactive approach during winter (no matter how mild) can improve your pet’s day-to-day. Whether it’s managing arthritis, adjusting routines, or optimizing nutrition, we’re here to support every season of your pet’s life. Sweet Home Veterinary Hospital treats cats, dogs, and pocket pets in North Hollywood from areas like Van Nuys, Sherman Oaks, and Glendale.

If your pet is showing signs of winter stiffness or is simply due for their annual exam, schedule an appointment with Sweet Home Veterinary Hospital.