Preparing Your Pet for Winter Cold in Morocco

From November, nights cool off noticeably in Morocco — around 10 °C minimum in Marrakech, and much colder at altitude and inland. Warm bedding, suitable food and adjusted walks are often enough to get through winter with peace of mind.

When does the cold arrive in Morocco?

Cooling begins in autumn and settles in winter. In Marrakech, November's average minimum is around 10 °C; nationwide, January is the coldest month, averaging close to 12 °C. But these averages hide big gaps: inland areas (Fès, Meknès) and especially altitude (Middle and High Atlas, Ifrane) can drop near 0 °C at night, while the coast (Casablanca, Rabat) stays milder.

Log your pet's condition and winter-care steps in the ALEEF health record: useful for tracking the frailest from one season to the next.

Which animals are most sensitive to cold?

Not all are equal before the cold. Puppies and kittens, elderly animals, small and short-haired breeds, sick or underweight animals, and animals living outdoors are the most exposed. For them, a few precautions make a real difference.

How do you protect your pet from the cold?

Set up warm bedding, raised and sheltered from drafts, indoors if possible; don't leave a sensitive animal outside at night; wipe it if it comes in wet; adjust the ration if energy use rises (on vet advice); and keep water and bowl away from frost. A thought too for street animals: a box and an unfrozen water point can save a night.

Shivering, lethargy, refusal to eat or very cold extremities can signal hypothermia: see a vet without delay.

Frequently asked questions

Does my short-haired dog need a coat? Often useful for cold-weather walks, especially for small breeds and older animals.

Should I feed more in winter? Only if energy use rises; ask for advice to adjust the ration without weight gain.

Is my indoor cat concerned? Less so, but give it a warm corner away from drafts and cold surfaces.