Winter is a particularly dangerous time for pets in the UK. Antifreeze poisoning spikes, arthritis worsens in the cold, and reduced daylight increases road traffic risks. Here is a practical guide to winter pet health and the associated costs.

Antifreeze Poisoning

Ethylene glycol (antifreeze) is one of the most dangerous substances a pet can ingest. It has a sweet taste that attracts animals, and even a small amount can be fatal. Cats are especially vulnerable — as little as one teaspoon can cause fatal kidney failure.

Antifreeze exposure peaks from November to February as drivers top up radiators and screen wash. Spillages on driveways, puddles in garages, and leaking car radiators are common sources.

Signs of antifreeze poisoning:

  • Within 1–2 hours: Appearing "drunk," vomiting, excessive thirst, urinating frequently
  • 12–24 hours: Apparent improvement (misleading — kidney damage is occurring)
  • 24–72 hours: Severe kidney failure, collapse, seizures

Treatment costs:

  • Emergency consultation: £100–£300
  • Blood tests: £80–£150
  • Antidote (ethanol or fomepizole, given IV): £200–£800
  • Hospitalisation and IV fluids (2–5 days): £500–£2,000
  • Total: £500–£3,000+ for treatment

The antidote must be given within hours of ingestion to be effective. After kidney failure develops, the prognosis is very poor. If you suspect antifreeze ingestion, go to an emergency vet immediately — do not wait for symptoms.

Arthritis in Cold Weather

Cold, damp weather worsens arthritis symptoms in pets, just as it does in humans. Joints stiffen, mobility decreases, and pain levels rise. An estimated 80% of dogs over 8 and 90% of cats over 12 have some degree of osteoarthritis.

Signs your pet's arthritis is worse in winter:

  • Reluctance to go for walks or climb stairs
  • Stiffness after resting, especially in the morning
  • Limping or bunny-hopping
  • Cats: reduced jumping, missing the litter tray, over-grooming painful joints

Management costs:

  • Metacam/Loxicom (daily NSAID): £15–£40 per month
  • Librela injection (monthly): £60–£95 per month
  • Solensia injection for cats (monthly): £50–£85 per month
  • Joint supplements (glucosamine/chondroitin): £10–£25 per month
  • Hydrotherapy sessions: £25–£45 per session

If your pet has not been assessed for arthritis, winter is a good time to book a consultation. Early intervention slows progression and improves quality of life. Many pets suffer in silence — cats in particular rarely show obvious pain.

Road Safety

With shorter days, evening walks often happen in darkness. Dogs are at increased risk of road traffic accidents. Reflective collars, leads, and coats cost £5–£20 and are a worthwhile investment. LED clip-on lights (£3–£8) make your dog visible at up to 500 metres.

Treatment for road traffic injuries can be extremely expensive — often £2,000–£5,000+ depending on the injuries sustained.

Hypothermia and Frostbite

Small, thin-coated, elderly, and very young dogs are vulnerable to hypothermia in cold weather. Signs include shivering, lethargy, and cold ears and paws. A dog coat (£10–£30) is not just a fashion accessory for breeds like Whippets, Greyhounds, and elderly small dogs.

Cats should be kept indoors during severe cold spells. Always check under your car bonnet before starting the engine in winter — cats often shelter in warm engine bays.

Winter Checklist

  • Store antifreeze securely and clean up any spills immediately
  • Review arthritis management with your vet
  • Use reflective gear for dark walks
  • Provide warm, padded bedding away from draughts for arthritic pets
  • Wipe paws after walks to remove road salt (irritant to pads)
  • Keep cats indoors during ice and snow
  • Maintain flea treatment — central heating means fleas are active year-round

Last updated: March 2026. If you suspect antifreeze poisoning, contact an emergency vet immediately — do not wait for symptoms to develop.