03/01/2026
Winter in West Bengal brings a rise in dangerous viral diseases in pets. Cats commonly face Feline Panleukopenia and Feline Calicivirus, while dogs are often affected by Canine Parvovirus (Parvo) and Canine Distemper. These illnesses make pets very weak, dehydrated, and unable to control their body temperature properly — increasing the risk of hypothermia (low body temperature).
Hypothermia happens when your pet’s body becomes colder than normal. Sick pets lose heat faster because infections reduce their energy, appetite, and immunity. Puppies, kittens, older pets, and those who stay on cold floors or damp places are at the highest risk.
👉 WHY HYPOTHERMIA HAPPENS IN VIRAL DISEASES
1. Panleukopenia (cats) causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and weakness — body heat drops quickly.
2. Calicivirus (cats) leads to fever, ulcers, poor eating, and weakness → pets struggle to maintain warmth.
3. Parvo (dogs) causes extreme vomiting and bloody diarrhea, making puppies dangerously cold and dehydrated.
4. Distemper (dogs) affects lungs, nerves, and immunity → weak, thin pets cannot keep body warmth.
👉 SIGNS OF HYPOTHERMIA YOU SHOULD NOTICE
1. Cold ears, paws, or body
2. Shivering OR no shivering in very weak pets
3. Dullness, sleepiness, or refusing food
4. Slow heartbeat or slow breathing
5. Collapse in severe cases
👉 WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
1. Keep your pet warm, dry, and wrapped in blankets
2. Let them rest in a warm room, away from cold floors
3. Use warm (not hot) water bottles near them
If your pet is showing vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, ulcers, or not eating — seek veterinary care quickly
4. One may use room heaters after discussing with the vet and let him explain how to use the room heater as overexposure may lead to dehydration
4. If they feel unusually cold, treat it as an emergency
💡 IMPORTANT
During winter, viral diseases + cold weather = high risk of sudden hypothermia, especially in puppies and kittens. Early care and warmth can save your pet’s life.