Winter bath frequency for dogs and cats: essential care for pets

Few things please pet owners as much as walking through the door to be greeted by a wagging tail, a companion asking for a fuss, and that familiar scent of a freshly bathed pet. Beyond the obvious feeling of cleanliness and wellbeing, keeping an animal clean makes time together even more enjoyable, strengthening affection and closeness between the household and its four-legged friend.

Bathing is not merely about appearance: when done properly, it supports pets’ health, comfort, and overall quality of life. Still, as temperatures drop, many owners start to question how often dogs and cats should be bathed. The challenge is to maintain good hygiene without causing thermal discomfort or increasing the risk of illness.

According to veterinary surgeon Douglas Evandro dos Santos, coordinator of the Veterinary Medicine course at Unime Lauro de Freitas, winter calls for extra care-but it does not mean baths should be stopped. “Bathing helps remove dirt, excess oil and possible agents that can cause skin diseases. What changes during cold weather are the precautions with water temperature, drying and the frequency, which should be suited to each animal’s characteristics,” he explains.

Ideal bath frequency in winter

In winter, the recommended bathing frequency depends on factors such as breed, coat type, lifestyle, and health status. Dogs that mostly live indoors can usually be bathed, on average, every 15 to 30 days, depending on need and veterinary guidance. By contrast, more active dogs that visit parks or beaches, or that regularly spend time outdoors, may require cleaning more often. As for cats, because they groom themselves daily, they rarely need routine baths-except in specific situations advised by a veterinary surgeon.

For animals with dermatological problems, bathing schedules must strictly follow the veterinary surgeon’s instructions. In many cases, treatment includes therapeutic baths using specific products to control inflammation, infections, or allergies.

Essential care during winter baths

To prevent discomfort and lower the risk of health issues, it is worth following a few precautions before, during, and after bathing your pets. See below:

1. Use lukewarm water-never very hot.
2. Choose the warmest time of day for the bath.
3. Dry the coat and skin completely.
4. Avoid draughts immediately after washing.
5. Keep the pet in a warm environment after the bath.
6. Use products made specifically for the species and the type of coat.

Do not leave the animal damp after bathing

Alongside choosing the right frequency and products, post-bath care is also crucial. Douglas Evandro dos Santos says one of the most common mistakes is leaving the animal damp. “The main care during winter is to ensure complete drying. Moisture trapped in the skin and coat can encourage dermatitis, fungal growth and thermal discomfort. Ideally, use towels and a hairdryer at a suitable temperature, always respecting the animal’s sensitivity,” he emphasises.

How to tell if your pet is cold

The veterinary surgeon also highlights signs that an animal is excessively cold. Shivering, constantly seeking warm places, a hunched posture, and reduced energy can all point to thermal discomfort.

“Each animal has different needs. There isn’t a single rule for all pets. The most important thing is to maintain hygiene without compromising comfort and health, watching the animal’s behaviour and seeking professional guidance whenever there are doubts,” he concludes.

By Camila Souza Crepaldi