Winter is hard on sensitive skin—especially noses and paws. Cold air, rough salt, dry heat, and icy surfaces all contribute to chapping, cracking, and irritation. Dogs, cats, rabbits, goats, and even horses benefit from a little skin protection during January’s harshest conditions.
Start with hydration. Skin health begins internally, so ensure pets drink enough water. Heated buckets for livestock and fresh indoor water for pets support nose and paw moisture. Adding warm water to meals helps boost hydration for picky drinkers.
Use protective balms. Apply pet-safe paw balm before walks to create a barrier from salt and ice. Smooth a bit on the nose if it looks dry or flaky—this helps prevent cracking. Many pet-safe balms are useful for goats or rabbits with dry footpads, especially those kept on straw bedding all winter. You can find multiple balm options at The Hungry Puppy, suitable for paws and noses across species.
Keep walks shorter on extremely cold days. Ice and wind can irritate paws quickly, and repeated exposure worsens chapping. Use booties if your dog tolerates them—they’re especially effective on salt-heavy sidewalks.
Check paws and noses daily. Look for redness, peeling, or cracked pads. Remove ice balls lodged between toes and dry paws thoroughly after outdoor time. Cats benefit from gentle nose wipes, especially if they sleep near heating vents.
Humidify your home. Dry indoor air dehydrates skin for both humans and pets. Maintaining humidity levels between 30–40% keeps noses moist and paws healthier. Winter skin care is all about small, consistent habits.