The Oregon Veterinary Medical Association and its member veterinarians share the following tips for keeping your pets safe and warm this winter:

Antifreeze Danger

Antifreeze is toxic to your pet's kidneys and can have deadly consequences. The ethylene glycol in antifreeze is sweet tasting and appealing to cats and dogs. As little as one-half teaspoon can be toxic to a cat and just a quarter cup can kill a medium-size dog. Cats can lick enough off their paws to cause a fatal reaction.

Do not leave antifreeze unattended or allow it to spill onto the garage floor or into the street. Consider using nontoxic antifreeze with a bittering agent to discourage pet consumption. If you see your pet drinking any amount of antifreeze, take it to a veterinarian immediately. The sooner treatment is started, the better for your pet.

Shelter

Dogs and cats that sleep outdoors should have a snug, dry, draft-free place to sleep. The floor of the shelter should be raised off the ground to keep cold and moisture away from your pet. Ideally, the shelter should be heated, insulated, and have a door to keep the elements out. During extreme weather, pets should stay inside. If your pet is shivering and refuses to play, the animal is too cold and should come inside.

Car Motors

Car motors are of particular danger to cats who sleep outside. Cats seek the warmth of car motors, and they can be severely injured or killed when caught in the fan belt of a car's engine. Make it a habit to check under the hood for animals and honk your horn before starting your car.