If you’re wondering what to look out for in terms of your pet’s health this winter, you’ve come to the right place. As the proud insurer of thousands of Kiwi fur kids, our claims data reveals clear spikes in certain cat and dog illnesses in the colder months.
Below, we reveal the winter health culprits to be aware of, plus answer some frequently asked cold month questions, including “can dogs get colds?”
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Winter cat + dog illnesses
Using PD claims data from 2020 to 2026, the stats revealed noticeable spikes in certain claim types in winter (June, July and August). In order of highest to lowest increases, here are the spikes:
| Claim type | Winter lift |
| Infection – Upper Respiratory Tract | 32.8% |
| Cystitis | 31.0% |
| Infection – Bladder | 27.1% |
| Vomiting | 20.4% |
| Infection – Eye | 10.8% |
| Lethargy | 9.6% |
| Conjunctivitis | 8.2% |
| Corneal ulcer | 4.1% |
| Kennel cough | 2.5% |
| Infection – Ear (Otitis) | 2.5% |
Respiratory infections lead the way
The biggest winter spike was seen in upper respiratory tract infections, which increased by 32.8% during the colder months. This category includes kennel cough in dogs, as well as other respiratory infections that affect both cats and dogs.
Kennel cough spreads more easily in winter because dogs spend more time in enclosed or social spaces, and cooler air can make airways more sensitive.
The good news is most cases are mild and clear up within a couple of weeks with rest. But puppies, older dogs, or those with weaker immune systems can get more serious symptoms, so it’s worth keeping an eye on them.
Prevention-wise, there’s a kennel cough vaccine available, and it’s often required if your dog goes to boarding or daycare. It doesn’t cover every strain, but it can reduce how severe the illness gets.
Check out vet and PD partner Dr Cath’s lowdown on pet vaccinations, below:
Urinary conditions rise sharply
One of the more surprising findings was the increase in urinary conditions during winter. Claims for cystitis increased by 31%, while bladder infections rose by 27.1%.
Many pets naturally drink less water during colder weather. Reduced water intake can contribute to more concentrated urine, which may increase the risk of urinary irritation and infections in susceptible pets. Cats in particular can be prone to urinary tract issues, making hydration especially important throughout winter.
Digestive issues also increase
Vomiting claims increased by 20.4% during the colder months. Vomiting isn’t a cat or dog illness on its own, but rather a symptom that can be linked to a wide range of illnesses, from infections and stomach bugs to dietary indiscretions and underlying health conditions.
While the occasional upset stomach isn’t uncommon, ongoing vomiting should always be checked by a veterinarian, especially if it’s accompanied by lethargy, diarrhoea or changes in appetite.
Pets can feel under the weather too
Lethargy claims increased by 9.6% during winter.
Most pets enjoy a cosy nap when it’s cold outside, but there can be a difference between normal winter laziness and genuine lethargy.
A noticeable drop in energy levels can be a sign that something else is going on, whether that’s a respiratory infection, urinary issue, pain or another underlying illness. If your usually active pet suddenly seems withdrawn or uninterested in activities they normally enjoy, it may be worth getting them checked out.
Eye and ear problems also rise
Several eye and ear-related conditions showed moderate increases during winter.
Eye infections rose by 10.8%, conjunctivitis increased by 8.2%, corneal ulcers rose by 4.1%, and ear infections increased by 2.5%.
These cat and dog illnesses can develop for a variety of reasons, including infections, irritation and allergies.
While allergies for cats and dogs are typically high in spring and summer months due to pollen, grasses and fleas, this is also a winter issue. Skin allergy claims persist, with itchy, inflamed skin leading to scratching, infections, and discomfort.
Explaining further, Dr Hayley Hunt, chair of Healthy Pets NZ, advises: “Dust mites can become more problematic in homes in winter due to reduced ventilation. Regardless of how clean homes are, mites tend to live deep within carpets, bedding and furniture.”
Mites aren’t the only issue, Dr Hunt adds: “Fleas can also persist throughout winter, particularly in warmer climates.”
Also look out for …. osteoarthritis
Although it didn’t make our top 10 list in terms of winter claim type spikes, osteoarthritis is another common conditions that can become more apparent during winter.
When it’s cold outside, skipping a walk can be tempting. After all, the couch is warm and your pet probably looks pretty comfortable curled up in their favourite spot.
But less movement during winter can sometimes make existing health issues more noticeable, particularly in older pets.
According to Dr Hunt, “While it occurs year-round, it can become more noticeable in senior pets during colder months due to changes in temperature and air pressure,” says Dr Hunt.
If your pet seems slower getting up, reluctant to jump on the couch or hesitant during walks, it may be worth chatting with your vet. The good news is there are plenty of ways to help manage joint discomfort, from warm bedding and weight management to joint-supporting diets and veterinary treatment.ht, feeding a joint-supporting diet, and speaking to your veterinarian about appropriate treatment options.
Winter cat + dog illnesses FAQ
Yep, dogs and cats can get “cold-like” illnesses. But not the same ones we do. They can have symptoms like sneezing, coughing, or runny noses, usually from pet-specific viruses. The good news: you can’t pass your cold to them (and vice versa). Most cases are mild and clear up with rest, but if symptoms linger or they seem really off, it’s best to check with a vet.
Yes! Fleas don’t fully die off in winter. Plus, they love warm indoor spaces, so your home (and your pet’s bed) is the perfect year-round hangout.
Even if you’re not spotting fleas, they can still be around in low numbers and quickly build up if you stop treatment. So the safest approach: stick to year-round flea prevention.
PS: Read vet advice on year-long flea treatments – here.
Short answer: it depends on the cat, but winter isn’t ideal for staying outside full-time.
Many cats can handle being outdoors, especially if they’re used to it and have a thick coat. But they still need a warm, dry, sheltered spot (like a garage, covered bed, or insulated shelter) to stay safe and comfortable.
Kittens, older cats, or short-haired breeds feel the cold more and shouldn’t be left out for long periods.
If your cat has the option to come inside, that’s always best. They’ll naturally choose warmth when it gets chilly.
PS: Read up about indoor vs outdoor cats – here.
Insurance for cat and dog illnesses
Pets getting sick in winter can be really stressful … in can also end up costing you a lot at the vet. Depending on your plan, PD covers a wide range of cat and dog illnesses.
Choosing a pet insurance plan is all up to your budget, and you can always consult our Policy Wording and Certificate of Insurance (‘COI’) to check what’s covered or not.
PLUS, if you sign up with us, you can get 1 month free pet insurance – no matter what plan you choose. Not to mention we have some amazing discounts if you insure more than one pet. We even offer a switching fee if you’re swopping over from a different insurance provider.
*We analysed PD pet insurance claims from 2020–2026 and identified conditions that occurred more frequently during winter (June–August) than the annual average. Diagnoses with low claim volumes, administrative procedures, injuries, cancers and other conditions without a clear seasonal link were excluded to focus on health issues most plausibly associated with winter weather and seasonal behaviours.