Ah, the monsoon. That beautiful, dramatic shift in the weather when the dry, dusty days are replaced by the smell of wet earth, pitter-patter rain on your windows, and a general sense of coziness. While many of us look forward to curling up with a cup of chai and watching the rain, for our pets… well, it’s a whole different story.
If you’re a pet parent like me, you know the rainy season brings more than just damp floors—it brings a whole list of things to worry about. From muddy paws to smelly fur and even fungal infections, monsoon can be tricky for our furry companions.
Here’s an honest, experience-rich guide on how to keep your pet happy,h healthy, and somewhat dry during this wet season.
1. Grooming: Keep It Clean, Keep It Dry
Let’s be real—your dog will find the one puddle in the park. And your cat? They may avoid rain like it’s lava, but still somehow smell funky by day three of nonstop humidity.
Towels Are Your Best Friend
During monsoon, I keep a stack of microfiber towels by the door. Quick drying, absorbent, and less stinky than regular ones—these things are lifesavers. Dry your pet thoroughly after walks. Not a quick swipe—really get into those paws, ears, and underarms where moisture hides.
Regular Brushing Helps More Than You Think
With the humidity in full swing, tangled fur and matting become common, especially for long-haired breeds. I make it a point to brush my dog daily during this season. It doesn’t just reduce hair fall—it keeps the skin healthier by allowing it to breathe.
Dry Baths & Anti-Fungal Powders
Bathing your pet too often isn’t ideal in this weather, but neither is letting them stink up the couch. I use a vet-recommended dry shampoo or antifungal powder in between baths, especially if there’s a hint of that “wet dog” smell lingering.
And here’s a little tip: If your pet hates bath time (like my grumpy Persian cat), try baby wipes (unscented and alcohol-free) as a quick clean-up solution.
2. Diet: Keep Their Tummy Monsoon-Ready
Ever noticed your dog eating less during monsoon? It’s not uncommon. My lab, Leo, becomes oddly picky the minute the clouds roll in.
Warm, Easy-to-Digest Meals
I switch from cold kibble to slightly warm, home-cooked meals during this season. Think boiled chicken, rice, a bit of pumpkin (great for digestion), and turmeric (anti-inflammatory). It’s gentle on the stomach and adds a layer of comfort food warmth.
Hydration Can Be Tricky
Here’s the thing: just because it’s cooler doesn’t mean pets don’t need water. But some get lazy. I add a dash of chicken broth to their water or offer more wet food to keep them hydrated.
Also, avoid feeding your pet leftovers or street food—bacteria thrive in this weather. Trust me, one emergency vet visit due to food poisoning during monsoon is one too many. Learned that the hard way.
3. Hygiene: Don’t Skip the Little Stuff
If there’s ever a season that reminds you how gross feet can get, it’s monsoon. And not just yours—your pet’s too.
Paw Care = Daily Ritual
Fungal infections in paws are incredibly common when it’s wet all the time. I clean my dog’s paws with diluted antiseptic or betadine solution after every walk. Sounds tedious, but a quick 2-minute routine saves weeks of medication later.
Also, if you haven’t already, trim those nails. Dirt hides under long nails and causes infections faster than you’d expect.
Ear Care: Humidity’s Silent Trap
Floppy-eared dogs, especially, are prone to ear infections. I learned that when Leo started shaking his head like a maniac one rainy evening, it turned out to be a yeast infection. Now, I gently wipe the outer ear with a vet-approved solution every few days.
No Wet Beds, Please
Don’t forget their bedding! Even if your pet is dry, damp floors or moisture in the air can make their bed a breeding ground for bacteria. Air out cushions, wash them weekly, and try using a moisture-absorbing mat beneath.
A Few Extra Things I Swear By
Raincoats and booties: Leo hates them with the fury of a thousand suns, but they do keep him cleaner.
Dehumidifier: Helps a lot in rooms where your pet sleeps, especially for breeds with breathing issues.
Regular vet checks: Even if nothing seems wrong. Monsoon symptoms creep up slowly—itching, ear scratching, sluggishness—they’re easy to miss.
In the End, It’s About Comfort
Monsoon with pets isn’t always elegant. There will be muddy paw prints, wet noses on your bed, and probably a few days when your house smells… questionable. But there’s also something special about a rainy afternoon snuggle with your dog asleep at your feet or your cat purring against the window.
So while it’s a bit of extra work, it’s also a season full of small joys, slow walks, and cozy companionship.
Just prep well, laugh through the chaos, and remember—it’s temporary. Soon, the sun will shine again, and the grass will be greener… especially because your dog peed on it every morning.
Have a funny monsoon-with-pets story or a tip that works wonders? Share it in the comments—we’re all in this wet mess together. 🐾
