Fall is here! From crisp morning walks to cozy nights at home, there’s plenty to love about the changing season. But cooler temperatures, shorter days and seasonal changes can bring new things to consider for your pet. Whether you’re looking for fall essentials for dogs and cats or want to learn more about fall pet safety, we’re here to help. In this guide, we’ll cover the must-haves to keep your BFF comfy this season, plus simple fall safety tips for dogs and cats.
Don’t have time to read the whole blog? Head to our Ask an Expert: FAQs at the end for quick answers to your questions about fall pet care and safety.
WHAT FALL ESSENTIALS DO DOGS & CATS NEED?
A little seasonal prep can go a long way toward keeping your pet comfortable, happy and healthy this fall. Here are some fall pet essentials to add to your checklist:
- Cozy bedding
- Seasonal nutrition
- Grooming essentials
- Outdoor gear
- Enrichment & entertainment
- Flea & tick prevention
- Visibility & identification
Let’s dig into these fall essentials for dogs and cats and learn how they can help your pet make the most of the season.
1. A COZY PLACE TO SNUGGLE
As temperatures start to drop, give your pet a comfy place to curl up and relax. A cozy pet bed or soft blanket can help make chilly mornings and cool nights extra comfortable.
2. NUTRITIOUS FOOD & SEASONAL TOPPERS
Fall is a great time to take a fresh look at what’s in your pet’s bowl. Choose a complete and balanced food that meets your pet’s nutritional needs, and consider adding a superfood topper for extra flavor and nutrients – like pumpkin or bone broth. Just remember that treats and meal toppers should be offered in moderation, making up no more than 10% of your pet’s diet.
3. GROOMING MUST-HAVES
Fall weather can mean more dirt, leaves and moisture coming home with your pet. Keep pet grooming essentials on hand to help remove debris and keep their coat clean and silky. Regular brushing can also help manage shedding and give you a chance to check for anything unusual on your pet’s skin & coat – like fleas & ticks, rashes and hot spots.
4. OUTDOOR GEAR FOR COOLER DAYS
Chillier weather doesn’t have to mean less outdoor fun! Make sure your dog has the right gear for fall walks and outdoor adventures, including a sturdy leash, collar and harness, plus warm layers. For dogs who enjoy early morning or evening walks, reflective gear and a collar light can help make them easier to spot as daylight gets shorter.
5. ENRICHMENT FOR COZY
DAYS AT HOME
Rainy or chilly days can mean more time indoors, so keep your pet entertained with plenty of enrichment. Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys can give dogs and cats something fun to focus on while providing mental stimulation. Rotate toys throughout the season to keep things interesting.
6. FLEA & TICK PREVENTION
Don’t put away your flea & tick prevention just because summer is over. Fleas & ticks are still active during the fall, and even indoor pets are at risk. Keep your pet’s preventative care routine on track and check them for ticks after outdoor adventures.
7. VISIBILITY & IDENTIFICATION
Shorter days mean more walks may happen around dawn or dusk. Make sure your pet’s ID tags and microchip information are up to date, and consider reflective or light-up gear to help increase visibility during nighttime outings.
WHAT ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT FALL SAFETY TIPS FOR DOGS & CATS?
Fall brings plenty of fun, but there are also a few seasonal hazards pet parents should know about. Keep these fall pet safety tips in mind as you and your BFF enjoy the season.
WATCH OUT FOR FALL FOODS & DECORATIONS
Some of our favorite fall decorations and foods (like candy, raisins and nutmeg) aren’t safe for pets. Keep potentially harmful foods, candles, decor and other seasonal items out of your pet’s reach. If you’re hosting a holiday gathering, remind guests not to share table scraps or treats without checking with you first.
STAY AWAY FROM MUSHROOMS & OTHER OUTDOOR HAZARDS
Fall can bring an increase in mushrooms and other things your pet may find interesting while exploring outside. Keep a close eye on your dog during walks and prevent them from eating unknown plants, mushrooms or other outdoor debris.
BE MINDFUL OF COOLER TEMPERATURES
Cooler temps can affect pets differently, so pay attention to the weather and your pet’s behavior. Adjust the length and intensity of outdoor activities as needed, especially as temperatures continue to drop.
CHECK FOR TICKS AFTER OUTDOOR ADVENTURES
Ticks can remain active during the fall, so give your pet a quick check after walks, hikes and time spent in wooded or grassy areas. Even indoor cats can pick up ticks if another two-legged or four-legged family member carries one indoors. Pay close attention to areas around your pet’s ears, neck, legs and toes.
KEEP WALKS SAFE AS DAYS GET SHORTER
With less daylight, visibility becomes even more important. Stick to well-lit areas when possible and use reflective gear and a collar light so you and your dog are easier to spot.
KEEP HALLOWEEN PET-FRIENDLY
Costumes, candy and decorations can create new hazards for pets around Halloween. Keep candy and other unsafe treats away from your BFF, and make sure costumes don’t restrict their movement, breathing, hearing or vision. If your pet gets stressed by visitors or the doorbell, give them a quiet, comfortable place to relax away from the festivities – and try a natural calming supplement.
WATCH YOUR PET AROUND FALL LEAVES & DEBRIS
A pile of leaves might look like the perfect place for a romp, but it can hide sticks, sharp objects, pests or other hazards. Keep an eye on your pet while they explore and avoid letting them chew or eat unknown objects.
HOW SHOULD I ADJUST MY PET’S ACTIVITY IN THE FALL?
As the weather changes, your pet’s routine may need to change, too. Cooler temperatures can make outdoor exercise more comfortable for many dogs, but shorter days and changing weather may affect when and how long you’re outside.
Start by gradually adjusting your pet’s routine rather than making a major change all at once. Pay attention to their energy level and behavior, and make sure they have access to fresh water during outdoor activities. For cats, keep them mentally engaged indoors with interactive toys, climbing furniture and other enrichment activities.
If your pet is older, has a medical condition or has specific exercise needs, talk with your vet about an exercise routine that’s right for them.
READY FOR A FUN FALL WITH YOUR DOG OR CAT?
From cozy beds and enrichment toys to grooming supplies and outdoor gear, your local pet store has everything you need to make fall a fun and cozy season for your best friend.
Not sure what your pet needs? Stop by your neighborhood store to chat with your local pet experts. We’ll help you find the right fall essentials for your dog or cat.
ASK AN EXPERT: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT FALL PET CARE
What does my dog need for fall?
Fall essentials for dogs include a cozy bed, healthy meals, grooming supplies, outdoor gear, flea & tick prevention and enrichment toys. Reflective gear is also helpful for low-light walks.
What does my cat need for fall?
Fall essentials for cats include a cozy place to rest, nutritious food, enrichment toys, grooming supplies, ID tag and flea & tick prevention.
What are the most important fall safety tips for dogs?
Keep dogs away from harmful foods, plants, mushrooms and outdoor debris. Continue year-round flea & tick prevention, check regularly for ticks and use reflective walking gear.
What are the most important fall safety tips for cats?
Keep harmful seasonal foods and decorations out of reach, and give cats a quiet space during Halloween festivities. Keep their identification and preventative care up to date.
Do pets still need flea & tick prevention in the fall?
Yes! Fleas & ticks remain active in the fall. Continue your pet’s preventative care routine and check for ticks after outdoor adventures.
How can I keep my dog safe on fall walks?
Keep your dog leashed in new areas, watch for outdoor hazards, check for ticks and use reflective or light-up gear when visibility is low.
What should I watch out for during Halloween?
Keep candy and unsafe foods away from pets, secure decorations and choose comfortable costumes that don’t restrict movement, breathing, hearing or vision. Give your pet a quiet space and a calming supplement to avoid stress.
How do I know if my pet is too cold outside?
Watch for signs of discomfort, such as shivering, reluctance to continue or seeking warmth. Bring them inside if they seem too cold, and contact your vet if you’re concerned. If your pet gets cold on walks, try a cozy sweater or jacket.
Should I change my pet’s exercise routine in the fall?
You may need to adjust activity based on temperature, weather and daylight. Make changes gradually and pay attention to your pet’s energy and behavior.