As temperatures drop, many pet owners notice their furry friends moving a little slower, limping more, or struggling to get up. These can be signs of dog and cat arthritis becoming worse in the cold. Just like in humans, cold weather and arthritis in dogs & cats can be a painful combination. Understanding how the winter months affect your pet’s joints—and what you can do about it—can make a huge difference in their comfort and quality of life.

Arthritis in Dogs & Cats

Arthritis in dogs & cats, also known as degenerative joint disease or osteoarthritis, usually develops over the course of many years. As your dog ages, the cartilage in their joints breaks down, allowing the bones to rub together abnormally. The changes in the joint cause swelling, inflammation, and pain.

Unfortunately, arthritis is progressive, meaning it gets worse over time. While many pet parents think of arthritis as a disease of aging dogs, it can show up in younger pets if they’ve had an injury—such as a torn ligament in the knee—or a developmental condition like hip dysplasia.

Does Cold Weather Affect a Dog’s & Cat's Joints?

Many pet parents report that their dog’s arthritis symptoms worsen during the colder months—but why does cold weather make arthritis worse?

While the exact reasons aren’t fully understood, several factors are believed to contribute to increased dog & cat joint pain in winter:

• Joint fluid thickening: The fluid inside joints helps cushion and support movement. In cold weather, this fluid can thicken and lose flexibility, resulting in stiffness.

• Changes in barometric pressure: During colder seasons, the barometric (atmospheric) pressure tends to drop. This causes joint tissues to expand slightly, potentially aggravating already inflamed joints.

• Reduced activity levels: Colder weather often means fewer walks and less outdoor play. This inactivity can lead to muscle stiffness and increased joint pain.

It’s important to note that not all dogs experience worse arthritis in winter—but it’s worth watching closely. Changes in behavior can be key indicators that your dog is feeling more discomfort than usual.

Signs of Worsening Arthritis in Winter:

• Decreased activity level
• Unwillingness to play or exercise
• Stiff movement, especially when standing up or lying down
• Limping or lameness
• Unusual sitting positions (e.g., leaving a leg extended)

Why Is Cat & Dog Arthritis Worse in Cold Weather?

So, which arthritis is worse in cold weather? The answer is typically osteoarthritis. Because it involves the breakdown of joint cartilage and the formation of bone spurs, any changes in temperature, pressure, or activity level can intensify symptoms. Dogs with this condition often suffer more visibly during the colder months.

Tips to Help Dogs & Cats With Arthritis in Cold Weather

Here are some effective ways to help ease your dog’s arthritis symptoms during winter:

• Keep Your Dog Warm and Dry -Create a warm sleeping area away from drafts. Heated dog beds, thermal mats, and extra blankets can all help relieve dog joint pain.

• Maintain Regular, Gentle Exercise - Even short walks or light indoor play help keep joints flexible. Aim for multiple short outings rather than one long walk.

• Cats & Dogs Joint Supplement - Supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen help reduce inflammation and maintain joint health. Petmima offers two excellent natural options:

Advanced Bone Broth Collagen for Dogs & Cats – A nutrient-dense formula rich in collagen peptides to help support healthy joints, cartilage, and digestion.

Muscle 2 Bone Advanced + Vitamin D for Dogs & Cats – A vegan-friendly, plant-based supplement formulated with calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D3 to strengthen bones, improve mobility, and support overall musculoskeletal health in both dogs and cats.

Adding the right  joint supplement for dogs and cats into your pet’s daily routine can be an easy and effective way to ease discomfort and support long-term mobility—especially during the colder months.

• Improve Home Accessibility - Use ramps, soft rugs, and orthopaedic dog beds to minimise joint strain. Raised food and water bowls can also help reduce bending stress.

• Manage Weight - Extra weight increases stress on arthritic joints. A healthy diet tailored to your dog’s needs can significantly ease their discomfort.

Final Thoughts

Cold weather and arthritis don’t mix well—but with the right support, your dog can enjoy winter in comfort. Keep an eye out for signs of pain, maintain a warm and active environment, and consider natural supplements like Petmima’s Advanced Bone Broth Collagen to support healthy joints.

Your pet's golden years can still be full of play, snuggles, and tail wags—with a little extra care when the temperature drops.