Sep

The winter coat of dogs and cats

Wesly van de Rijdt

The winter coat of dogs and cats

The main trigger for winter coat growth is the decrease in the amount of daylight. When the days get shorter, this triggers a biological process that stimulates the growth of the winter coat. This dense, warm coat helps animals stay comfortable and protected during winter. While this fur provides natural protection, it also requires proper care. To assist your pet during these cold times, we share some tips below.

Why a winter coat?

The winter coat plays a crucial role in your pet's temperature regulation. For most breeds, the coat provides sufficient protection from the cold, but there are some situations where extra attention or protection may be needed:

Small or short-haired breeds: Breeds such as chihuahuas or short-haired cats lack the thick layer of insulation that some larger, long-haired breeds have and may benefit from a coat or jacket
Older animals: Older dogs and cats often have more difficulty staying warm due to decreased muscle mass or health problems
Sick or weakened animals: Pets with health problems, such as thyroid disorders, often have colder

When is extra protection needed?

Although the winter coat provides sufficient protection in most cases, there are times when extra protection may be needed:

Extreme cold: In temperatures below freezing, it may be wise to provide extra protection, such as a coat, especially for small, short-haired or older animals
Wet or snowy weather: Prolonged exposure to wet weather can make the coat less effective as an insulating layer. Always dry your pet thoroughly and consider a waterproof coat for extra protection

How to take care of a winter coat?

A healthy winter coat requires the right care. The following tips will keep your favourite four-legged friend's coat in optimal condition:

Regular brushing: Due to the thicker coat, regular brushing is essential to prevent tangles and remove dead hairs. This also ensures better air circulation, which helps prevent skin problems
Prevent coat damage: Beware of wetness; a wet coat can quickly feel chilly and sometimes lead to skin problems such as hot spots. So dry your pet well after a walk in the rain or snow
Check for parasites: The thicker coat allows parasites such as fleas and ticks to hide better. Check regularly and use grooming products to protect your pet
Healthy Diet: A well-balanced diet contributes to healthy skin and coat. Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, such as fish oil, are important for skin and coat health
Coat care products: Use the right grooming products, such as our Remedy+ products, which are specially designed to keep the skin and coat healthy. Ideal for pets with sensitive skin or a tendency to irritation

Take care of the skin

Healthy skin is the basis for a beautiful coat. At HFL Animal Health, we offer a selection of products that contribute to a healthy winter coat. We recommend Calluderm:

Is oily in character, but absorbs nicely into the skin
Soothing
Provides a protective layer to support the natural repair process of the skin barrier
Promotes the skin's repair capacity and works deeper into the skin
User-friendly
Without antibiotics and hormones

Prevent skin and coat problems

The winter coat is a natural protection that helps your dog or cat stay warm and comfortable during the cold months. With the right care, you can ensure that this protection continues to work optimally. Regular brushing, a healthy diet and the right grooming products are essential to prevent skin and coat problems.

At HFL Animal Health, we are always ready to help you with the best advice and the right products for your pet. Do you have any questions about winter coat or our Remedy+ products? Feel free to contact us - we are ready to help you. Mail us at info@hfl-animalhealth.com Or message us on one of our social channels!