Paws for Fall: Keeping Pets Cozy & Safe This Season

As the days grow shorter and the nights turn crisp, it’s not just people who feel the change — our pets notice it too. A little preparation can make the seasonal shift smoother for everyone in your home. Here are some tips to keep your furry friends safe, cozy, and healthy as fall settles in.

🐾 Keep Them Warm

While many cats and dogs grow thicker coats in the cooler months, seniors, short-haired breeds, and kittens may still need extra warmth. Cozy blankets, heated beds, or even a safe space away from drafts can make a big difference. For cats, this might mean setting up a favorite perch near a sunny window, or offering a heated cat bed for those long autumn naps.

🥶 Watch Out for Seasonal Hazards

Fall brings antifreeze leaks, rodent poisons, and mushrooms — all dangerous to pets. Keep an eye out on walks or in the yard, and store chemicals out of reach. For indoor cats, watch your houseplants — some fall favorites like chrysanthemums and lilies are toxic to them.

🧥 Outdoor Cats & Dogs

If your pets spend time outdoors, check shelters and bedding regularly. Damp straw, blankets, or old bedding can hold moisture and make animals colder. Fresh, dry insulation is a must as the temperatures drop. Cats that roam outdoors may seek warmth under car hoods — tap your hood before starting your car to make sure a curious feline hasn’t curled up there.

🐕 Exercise & Enrichment

Cooler weather often means fewer long days outside. Keep pets active indoors with play sessions, food puzzles, or short training exercises to burn off energy and keep them mentally sharp. Cats in particular benefit from interactive play with wand toys or laser pointers to replace the “hunting time” they’d otherwise spend outdoors.

🥣 Nutrition & Health

Just like people, pets may need diet adjustments when activity levels change. Make sure fresh water is always available (don’t let outdoor bowls freeze once the temperatures dip). Fall is also a good time to schedule a wellness check — before winter weather makes travel trickier.

🎃 Seasonal Fun

Fall decorations, pumpkins, and even costumes can be fun, but keep safety in mind. Avoid small decorations pets can chew, and never leave candles unattended near curious whiskers. And if you’re dressing up your cat or dog, make sure costumes fit comfortably and don’t restrict movement, vision, or breathing.

A little preparation goes a long way. By taking steps now, you’ll help your pets stay happy, safe, and comfortable as we transition from summer sunshine to autumn leaves.