Preparing Your Pet for Cooler Weather: Fall Essentials for Dogs and Cats

As temperatures drop, your furry friends need extra care to stay happy and healthy.

​Learn how to prepare your pets for fall and winter with grooming, diet, and safety tips.

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When the leaves start to change and the mornings get crisp, it’s not just your wardrobe that needs a seasonal update — your pets’ routines do too. Fall brings cooler weather, shorter days, and new environmental changes that can affect your dog or cat’s comfort and health. Here’s how to get your pet ready for the season ahead.

🐾 1. Adjust Their Grooming Routine
Even though shedding season often happens in spring, many pets also shed their summer coats in early fall to grow thicker winter fur.

• Brush regularly: This prevents matting and keeps their coat healthy.
• Bathe less frequently: Overbathing can dry out their skin as the air gets cooler and drier.
• Watch for fleas and ticks: These pests don’t disappear entirely in fall, so continue prevention.

🛏️ 2. Keep Them Warm and Cozy
Just like you, pets appreciate a warm place to relax when the temperatures drop.

• Provide extra bedding: A soft, insulated bed off the cold floor helps older pets and short-haired breeds stay warm.
• Dress for the weather: Smaller dogs or short-haired breeds may need a light sweater or jacket for chilly walks.
• Limit outdoor time: If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for them.

🍗 3. Reassess Their Diet
Pets burn more calories in the cold, especially if they spend time outside.

• Ask your vet about portion adjustments for active pets in cooler weather.
• Hydration still matters: Indoor heating can cause dehydration, so make sure fresh water is always available.

🚗 4. Be Aware of Seasonal Dangers
Fall introduces new household and outdoor risks.

• Antifreeze is deadly: Even a few drops can be toxic to pets, so clean up any spills immediately.
• Watch for mushrooms and acorns: Both can cause stomach upset or worse if eaten.
• Candles and decor: Keep them out of reach to avoid burns or ingestion.

🏠 5. Create Indoor Enrichment Opportunities
Cooler weather means more time inside, so mental and physical stimulation are key.

• Rotate toys regularly.
• Try puzzle feeders or indoor fetch.
• Set up cozy spots near windows so they can safely watch the outdoors.

 The Bottom Line
Fall can be one of the best times of the year to enjoy outdoor adventures and cozy nights with your pets. A few simple changes to their routine can help them stay healthy, happy, and safe through the season.
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At Corin Insurance, we know pets are family. If you’d like to review your homeowners or renters policy to ensure your furry friends and their needs are covered, we’re here to help.

Disclaimer:
This blog is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional veterinary or insurance advice. Always consult your vet or insurance provider for guidance specific to your pet and household.