AS TEMPERATURES plummet this month, an animal health company is urging owners to keep their animals warm.

This winter, nutravet is highlighting the importance on keeping an eye on pets.

Like their owners, dogs, cats and small furries can feel the cold and may need support for their health during winter.

Korina Stephens from natural animal health company, nutravet comments: “During the winter months, pets can usually become less active and may need extra support for their health.

"It goes without saying that many owners treat their pets like family and during the winter season, we want to ensure that they can enjoy the fun along with you.

“Colder weather can mean joint stiffness in pets is more prominent, your dog may appear slower on walks or seem stiff when getting up from their sleep.

"Looking after your pet’s joints in colder weather will help to maintain their overall health and quality of life with you.

"Some pet owners often overfeed their dogs during winter, however as they are less active extra food or treats are not needed and can lead to unwanted weight gain. This can also add pressure to your pet’s joints.”

To help care for your pet during winter months, nutravet share their tips:

Make sure your pet has comfy warm bedding away from any drafts.

For older and smaller dogs make sure they have extra bedding to keep them warm and provide extra padding for their joints.

Move their bed off tiled flooring and into a carpeted area.

Walking your dog will help keep their joints mobile and prevent weight gain.

Using a dog coat can help keep them warm as the weather gets colder, especially for older or smaller, short haired dogs.

After each winter walk, dry your dog and check their coat and paws for stones or hardened mud.

Bring outdoor pets indoors during colder months. If left outside your dog could become disoriented and ill.

Pets are attracted to the sweet taste of antifreeze; however, it can be poisonous to cats and dogs.

If you use it for your car, be sure to clean up any spills immediately.

Salt and chemicals used to melt ice on paths and driveways and could be poisonous to you cat or dog.

Your pet could pick them up on their paws when outside, which could irritate them.

In cold weather your senior cat or dog might need some extra care.

Cold weather can aggravate joints, so provide extra padding and comfort to relieve joints in colder conditions.