Keeping Pets Healthy All Winter Long: Nutrition, Hydration & Cold-Weather Care

 

 



Keeping Pets Healthy All Winter Long: Nutrition, Hydration & Cold-Weather Care

Winter brings cozy nights and snowy walks—but it also introduces unique challenges for our pets. Cold temperatures, dry indoor air, reduced activity, and seasonal changes in routine can quietly affect your pet’s health. The good news? With the right nutrition, hydration, and care, winter can be a healthy, comfortable season for dogs and cats.

At J-B Pet Supplies, we believe winter wellness starts from the inside out. Here’s how to support your pet all winter long.

Why Winter Is Harder on Pets Than You Think

While many pets love cooler weather, winter places subtle stress on their bodies:

  • Dry indoor air from heating systems can lead to dehydration and dry skin

  • Less outdoor activity can affect digestion, weight, and muscle tone

  • Cold temperatures increase calorie needs for some pets

  • Lower moisture intake, especially for cats, can impact urinary and kidney health

Nutrition and hydration play a much bigger role in winter wellness than most pet parents realize.

Start With a High-Quality Foundation Diet

Your pet’s main food is the foundation of their health year-round, but it becomes even more important in winter. Not all kibble is created equal—ingredient quality, digestibility, and nutrient balance matter.

High-quality diets use:

  • Better protein sources

  • Fewer fillers

  • Balanced fats and carbohydrates for sustained energy

Brands like Fromm and NutriSource are strong examples of well-formulated foods that provide consistent nutrition during colder months. For many pets, staying on a trusted, high-quality kibble helps maintain body condition, immune support, and digestive health through seasonal changes.

Winter Hydration: The Most Overlooked Health Factor

One of the biggest winter health issues we see is dehydration. Pets often drink less water in winter, especially when they’re indoors more often—and dry heated air only increases moisture loss.

Why hydration matters:

  • Supports kidney and urinary health

  • Aids digestion and nutrient absorption

  • Helps maintain skin and coat health

  • Supports joint comfort and circulation

Cats, in particular, are prone to low water intake, making hydration especially critical.

Gently Cooked Food: A Winter Wellness Boost

Adding gently cooked food is an excellent way to increase moisture while supporting digestion and appetite. These foods contain significantly more moisture than dry kibble and are often easier on the digestive system.

Options like A Pup Above and gently cooked recipes from Instinct can be fed as:

  • A full meal

  • A topper mixed with kibble

  • A rotational option during colder months

They’re especially helpful for senior pets, picky eaters, and dogs that are less active during winter.

Easy Hydration Add-Ons That Make a Big Difference

If switching foods isn’t an option, hydration toppers are a simple and effective solution.

Winter hydration helpers include:

  • Goat milk, like Primal’s frozen raw goat milk, which provides moisture plus natural probiotics

  • Bone broth, such as broths from Open Farm, which add flavor and hydration without unnecessary fillers

These can be poured over meals, slightly warmed (never hot), and fed daily to help pets meet their moisture needs—especially cats and dry-food-only dogs.

Nutrition Supports Skin, Coat & Immune Health

Dry skin, dull coats, and excessive shedding often show up in winter. Nutrition plays a key role in keeping skin healthy from the inside out.

Look for diets and toppers that support:

  • Healthy fats

  • High-quality proteins

  • Proper moisture levels

When hydration and nutrition are dialed in, many pets experience fewer skin and coat issues during winter.

Small Changes, Big Impact

You don’t need a complete diet overhaul to support winter wellness. Even small adjustments—like adding a gently cooked topper or a splash of broth—can make a noticeable difference in your pet’s comfort and health.

If you’re unsure what’s best for your dog or cat, our team is always happy to help you choose options that fit your pet’s age, lifestyle, and health needs.

Winter Wellness Starts Here

High-quality food, proper hydration, and thoughtful seasonal adjustments can help your pet thrive all winter long.

Available in-store or for same-day local delivery.
Stop in and talk with our knowledgeable team—we’re here to help you keep your pets healthy, happy, and comfortable all season.

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