Winter Skin, Coat & Paw Problems in Dogs and Cats (and How to Prevent Them)
I have two cords of firewood in a heap in my driveway that need to be stacked. This reminder that winter is coming got me thinking about how the colder, drier winter months affect not only us, but our furry family members.
Cold air outside + dry heat inside is a rough combo for pets. Below is a practical guide to the skin, coat, and paw issues that tend to spike in winter—and simple routines to keep your dog or cat comfortable.
Why Winter Irritates Skin and Paws
Low humidity strips moisture from the skin → dryness, itching, static.
Snow/ice + de-icers irritate and damage paw pads.
Wet + cold exposure slows healing and raises frostbite risk.
Sweaters/boots can rub or trap moisture if they don’t fit or stay damp.
Boredom indoors can lead to overgrooming or licking sores.
Common Winter Skin & Coat Issues
Dry skin (xerosis) & “snowflake” dandruff: Itchiness, flaking, dull/static coat.
Hot spots & superficial infections: Scratching from dryness breaks the skin.
Matting: Long coats, damp walks, and sweaters/harnesses create tangles.
Friction dermatitis/alopecia: Rub spots where clothing or gear chafes.
Seborrhea flares: Greasy or flaky patches when the barrier is compromised.
Nose dryness/hyperkeratosis: Crusty, cracked nose—common in seniors and short-nosed breeds.
“Snow nose” (dogs): Seasonal pigment fade—harmless and cosmetic.
Acral lick dermatitis (dogs): Anxiety/boredom licking forms stubborn sores.
Paw Problems You’ll See More Often
Pad dryness & cracks: Painful fissures, occasional bleeding.
Ice balls between toes: Pull at fur/skin and make walking painful.
Contact irritant dermatitis: Red, burning pads from salt and some de-icers.
Abrasions: From rough, icy surfaces.
Interdigital dermatitis/overgrowth: Moisture trapped between toes fuels yeast/bacteria.
Cold Injuries (Outdoor Exposure)
Frostbite: Tips of ears, tail, and pads are most vulnerable. Early skin looks pale/blue; later it may darken and scab.
Hypothermia-related skin compromise: Poor circulation delays healing and invites infection.
Cat-Specific Notes
Ear/tail frostbite is common in outdoor and feral cats.
Overgrooming from indoor stress can worsen dry-skin damage.
Matting rises in long-haired cats when damp fur isn’t fully dried.
Prevention & Daily Care Routine
Humidify the home:
Aim for ~40–50% relative humidity; keep beds away from floor vents.
Brush regularly: Detangle, lift dander, and distribute natural oils; blow-dry on cool after snowy walks.
Bathe smarter:
Space baths out; use a gentle, moisturizing pet shampoo/conditioner; rinse thoroughly.
Protect the barrier:
Paws: Apply paw balm before walks (to shield) and after (to replenish). Trim fur between toes to reduce ice balls.
Nose: Use a pet-safe nose balm for crusting.
Booties & gear: Choose snug, not tight; check for rub spots; keep layers dry.
De-icer choices: Use pet-safe products on your property; always rinse/wipe paws after walks.
Enrichment: Short training games, puzzle feeders, and play breaks curb boredom licking.
Nutrition: Ask your vet about omega-3 supplementation for skin support.
When to Call the Vet
Pad cracks that bleed or make your pet limp or refuse walks
Black/gray, cold, or very painful skin (possible frostbite)
Pus, foul odor, or widespread redness/swelling
Hair loss in patches, persistent itching despite moisturizers
Lesions that don’t improve within a few days of home care
Quick Winter Care Checklist
Daily: Brush, paw rinse/wipe after walks, balm reapply as needed
Every walk: Balm → booties (if used) → post-walk rinse/wipe → dry thoroughly
Weekly: Check for rub spots under gear; trim inter-toe fur; launder sweaters/blankets
Ongoing: Maintain home humidity; keep enrichment on the calendar; monitor for licking “hot spots”