Weather
Louisiana Winter Weather Awareness: 5 Signs Your Pet Is Dangerously Cold
Baton Rouge, LA – Louisiana pet owners are being reminded that dogs and cats can dev…
By Grant Holloway · 2026-10-29T08:11:37.605Z
Baton Rouge, LA – Louisiana pet owners are being reminded that dogs and cats can develop life threatening hypothermia when exposed to freezing temperatures, strong winds and prolonged wet conditions. As Day 5 of the Winter Weather Awareness series continues Thursday, Oct. 29, recognizing the warning signs could help save an animal's life.
According to the National Weather Service NWS , even animals with natural fur coats need protection from dangerous winter conditions. Prolonged exposure can cause pets to lose body heat faster than they can replace it.
5 Hypothermia Warning Signs in Dogs and Cats Pet owners should watch for symptoms that may indicate dangerous cold exposure:
Uncontrollable shivering: Persistent shaking as the animal struggles to stay warm. Weakness or lethargy: Unusual tiredness, sluggish movement or reluctance to stand. Difficulty walking: Stiff movements, poor coordination or stumbling. Cold ears and paws: Especially when accompanied by other signs of illness. Reduced responsiveness: Extreme drowsiness, confusion or difficulty waking. A pet that stops shivering but remains weak or unresponsive may be experiencing severe hypothermia.
What Louisiana Pet Owners Should Do If hypothermia is suspected, bring the animal indoors immediately.
Remove wet coverings, gently dry the pet and wrap it in warm blankets. Avoid direct heating pads, very hot water or aggressive rubbing, which can cause injury.
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately. Warming measures should not delay professional treatment.
Why Louisiana's Winter Weather Is Dangerous for Pets Dogs and cats across East Baton Rouge, Orleans, Jefferson, Caddo, Lafayette, Calcasieu, Rapides and Ouachita parishes can face cold weather hazards during winter cold fronts, freezing conditions and prolonged periods of wind and rain.
Although Louisiana generally experiences milder winters than northern states, sudden temperature drops and wet weather can still create dangerous conditions for pets left outdoors.
Small breeds, short haired animals, puppies, kittens and older pets may be especially vulnerable.
The NWS recommends keeping pets warm and dry, providing adequate food and unfrozen water, and limiting outdoor exposure during dangerous cold.
After walks, clean and dry paws to remove moisture, mud and any potentially harmful deicing chemicals.
People Face Hypothermia Risks, Too In humans, warning signs include shivering, confusion, slurred speech, unusual sleepiness and poor coordination. Suspected hypothermia requires immediate medical attention.
Residents can find additional guidance through the NWS New Orleans/Baton Rouge office , NWS Shreveport office , NWS Lake Charles office , NWS Jackson office and NWS cold weather safety resources .
This winter preparedness editorial series continues through Saturday, Oct. 31 , emphasizing the importance of protecting both people and pets from dangerous cold exposure.