Meerkat sums up South Africans during winter
Updated | By Udesha Moodley-Judhoo
Our pets feel the winter chill too... Here's how to keep your pets warm and toasty this winter.

Winter is officially here, and while some may love the cold weather and enjoy pulling out those thick blankets and heaters, others prefer the sunny skies and warmth that Durban is known for.
We also find the in-between people, who enjoy wearing their winter clothes but don't want to let go of the summer sun. The weather in Durban, specifically, has been colder than usual, so we take what we get and we stay grateful for the sun, as we embrace our relationship with fuzzy socks, electric blankets and heaters.
A video of a meerkat warming up near a fan heater summed up most South Africans during winter. In the video, 'Tumi' the meerkat is seen holding onto the fan heater while a man, who we assume is his owner, speaks lovingly to the Timone lookalike.
Did you know fan heaters are better suited than bar heaters? While bar heaters can only provide warmth when you are close by, fan heaters can warm an entire room, provided the doors are closed.
Watch the video below from Instagram.
Read more: Staying safe during the windy weather
Pets24 says, "Winter can be a challenging season for our pets. Like us, they feel the cold, and their bodies may need extra care. One of the most important things to consider is keeping them warm.
It’s a matter of their health and well-being. Cold temperatures can stress their bodies, making them more vulnerable to illnesses. By keeping them warm, you’re protecting them from potential hazards and ensuring their overall happiness."
Here are some ways to keep your pets warm this winter.
- Create a warm and cosy spot for your pet/s. Use a pet bed or blanket to create a warm space for your pet. You could also snuggle up with your pooch, which provides warmth for both of you and gives you some bonding time.
- Prepare your pet's outdoor space for winter weather. If your pet sleeps outside, ensure its living space is warm, insulated, dry, and under shelter. Also, ensure the water bowls are filled and the water hasn't turned icy.
- Think about their feeding times and their food. Just like how we enjoy warm meals during the cold, they do too. Speak to your vet about warm meal options and how to incorporate healthy meals for your pet into their winter diet.
- Stay hydrated. Like us, pets can tend to shy away from drinking water during winter because the water is cold, but hydrating your body is just as important during winter.

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Image Courtesy of Instagram
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