Autumn in Nundah is an interesting season, mixing hot and cold weather, often within one week. So, having some pet care tips for autumn up your sleeve for the changing season can help you be prepared and ensure your pet is getting the right attention.
To help you know what to look for and do this autumn, our vet clinic in Nundah has put together a few tips to make it easy. Any concerns or questions, our team is also here to give you advice and guidance specific to your furry friend.
5 Pet Care Tips for Autumn
Monitor for seasonal allergies.
Like you, your pets can get seasonal allergies in the autumn from the increase in pollen, mould and dust, or even fleas. Some signs your pet may be suffering from seasonal allergies include:
- Excessively scratching, biting and/or licking themselves
- Red, inflamed, irritated or broken skin
- Hair loss or thinning
- Hot spots or skin infections
- Dandruff and dry skin
- Watery eyes
- Sneezing
- Shaking their head more than normal
- Red or infected ears
Cats may also wheeze or cough if they are affected by allergies. If your pet’s allergies are not getting better, they have extreme swelling, difficulty breathing or distress, it’s time to book a visit with our Nundah vet clinic.
Adjust exercise routines for cooler weather.
With the cooler temperatures and often rainier days, you may not get outdoors to exercise your pet as much. However, it’s still very important to do, especially for pets prone to weight gain or those with joint problems.
As part of your autumn pet health plan, try to make backup plans for those days when you don’t feel like going outdoors or the weather doesn’t permit. Even having some toys at home you can give your pet to run around with or play with them will ensure they’re getting the exercise and mental stimulation they need.
Adjust diet for any changes to physical activity.
Keep in mind, if you do adjust your pet’s exercise levels to also increase or decrease their food and snacks to suit. Pets can also put on a little weight in cooler weather, so it’s important to keep an eye on their weight in case you need to change how much you’re feeding them.
During your annual vet checkup, your vet will normally weigh your pet to make sure they’re maintaining good weight. If they are underweight or overweight, your vet will recommend some dietary changes, potentially even the type of food they eat to help you give your dog or cat the best care possible.
Treat for fleas and parasites.
While fleas are typically more common during hot weather, they can still survive and be around in cooler temperatures, especially indoors where it’s warm. Many parasites can also thrive in cooler weather, so it’s important to continue to protect your pets from fleas, worms and parasites every season, including autumn.
It’s important to get the right flea and parasite treatment, and to use the right dose for your cat or dog depending on their weight. If you’re unsure of what products or dosage you need, ask our pets for advice as part of your autumn pet care plan
Keep your pet warm.
Of course, autumn means cooler temperatures, so it’s important your dog or cat has plenty of warm bedding available, if needed. When the temperature drops, try to keep your pooch or feline inside as much as possible, providing them with extra bedding, like blankets, to give them some added insulation.
If your pet’s bed is directly on the ground, it may also be a good idea to get a raised bed as the floor can be cold, even with extra blankets. For pets who do need to sleep outside, ensure they have an insulated, covered shelter with added blankets to keep them toasty warm. Short-haired pets may even benefit from a pet coat if they’re feeling the cold.
Maintain your pet’s grooming schedule.
Pet hair tends to grow thicker during the winter to help keep them warm. This is why you may notice some extra shedding as the degrees drop.
As part of your autumn pet care in Nundah, ensure you are regularly grooming your dog or cat, even daily for longer-haired pets. Pay special attention to under their belly and their backsides as this is where the hair can get particularly tangled. If the hair does become matted or you want to ensure their coat is being well cared for, book a visit with a local groomer to keep them looking and feeling their best.
Protect your pets skin and paws.
Do you ever get dried lips or skin during cold weather? Well your pets can be the same, especially the skin on the pads of their paws, their nose and ears. It can lead to irritation and discomfort, which is why you might see your pet licking or pawing at themselves if they don’t have allergies.
For your pet’s paws, ensure they are kept dry and warm, especially after walks. You can also get a pet-friendly balm or moisturiser made for ears, noses and paws if they do look a little dry.
If you continue to notice the problem, it’s best to speak to your vet as they may be able to recommend some dietary supplements to support your pet’s skin during autumn and winter.
