Frostbite not only affects the toes, ears or paws of your cat or dog, but it can also been seen on their hind ends. The skin will first appear white, then red, blistered, swollen, and peeling like a burn.  If you have an animal that appears to be frostbitten…first warm the frostbitten parts with warm water (90 degrees F/32.2 degrees C) for 15 to 20 minutes.  Never rub the area. Consult with your Veterinarian for antibiotics. Frostbitten tissue will eventually scar or slough off.

Hypothermia generally occurs when body temperatures go too low.  This may or may not be accompanied by frostbite.  The chance of hypothermia developing is greatly increased by exposure to wet conditions.  Smaller pets with short hair are more at risk than larger outdoor animals who may have 3 layer coats or long hair.

If you see your pet displaying violent shivering, disorientation or in some advanced cases, weakness and lethargy, (rectal temps may be below 98 degrees F/36.7 degrees C), bring your pet indoors immediately.  If your pet is wet, place it in a warm bath first.  Than proceed to dry your pet, wrap her in blankets and turn up the heat. You may use warm packs under the arm pits or place on abdomen until you get a temperature reading of 105 to 108 degrees F.  If you do not have anything to warm your pet with, try a large plastic bottle filled with warm water or even a hairdryer.  When your pet appears to be recovering, you can give it glucose (4 tablespoons of sugar to a pint of water).  You should contact your Veterinarian for advice as soon as possible, as shock may develop.

It is important to make sure if you have outdoor animals, that these animals have access to a warm shelter area at all times, especially during inclement winter months.   Weather (can and will) kill at a moments notice.   Be responsible and don’t forget about your outdoor furry family members!