6 Tips for Keeping Small Pets Warm in Winter

As the darker nights and colder mornings settle over the UK, us humans will be opting for our winter wardrobe. But what about our small pets?

Winter has arrived in the UK and therefore, it's essential to ensure that our furry friends are warm during the colder months. 

Small pets, like rabbits, guinea pigs, and hamsters, are particularly vulnerable to the cold, so taking steps to keep them comfortable is vital.

Discover how to keep your pets warm this winter below...

1. Provide extra bedding

During the colder months, your small pet will rely on bedding to stay warm.

Provide them with extra layers of bedding to give them the insulation that they need. 

Our wood shavings offer a premium bedding solution for small pets. Designed to be 100% absorbent, they help keep your pet's environment clean and dry, reducing the risk of illness caused by damp conditions.

2. Keep closures clean

In addition to investing in quality bedding that will keep them clean and dry, it's important to regularly tidy their closures. 

Whether you have indoor or outdoor pets, ensure that their living space is free of dampness and drafts. 

A waterproof cover or tarpaulin can work wonders for outdoor setups, and sealing any gaps will help trap warmth.

3. Check water bottles regularly to prevent freezing 

Keeping your small pets warm this winter will also include reviewing their water bottles. 

Even if their hutches are well insulated, in very low temperatures water will freeze and cause the spout of the drinking bottle to stop moving. 

Check their water supply at least twice a day and consider insulating the bottle with a sock or thermal cover.

As a backup, provide a bowl of water indoors, but remember to remove it if it spills to avoid wet bedding.

4. Think about repositioning their homes! 

Location matters!

If your pet lives outdoors, consider moving their hutch to a sheltered area, such as a garage or shed.

Provided that these spaces do not have a boiler flue and isn't used for vehicles. Exhaust fumes can be fatal to small animals. 

For indoor pets, place their cage in a warmer part of your home, away from drafts and heaters that could cause temperature fluctuations.

5. Offer more food for extra calories

Staying warm uses up energy, so your pets may need extra food during winter.

Increase their portion sizes slightly or provide high-quality treats to help them maintain their body temperature.

Consult your vet if you’re unsure about the right amount to feed them.

6. Ensure they have companionship 

Our final tip for keeping your pets warm in the winter is ensuring that they have companionship.

Companionship is an essential part of their behavioural development, but also a great way to keep warm. 

Small pets will huddle together in their sleeping compartment, but are also more likely to move around if they have friends. 

Exercise will help them to generate body heat! 

Take a look at our Instagram and Facebook to discover the full benefits of our bedding solutions, as well as the latest offers and giveaways.