The fate of pets can be overlooked in the excitement and aggravation of momentous weather.

The frigid temperatures and record-breaking snowfall pose a double threat to domestic animals, and, sadly, reports of neglect have increased in recent days, according to law enforcement and animal control officers.

It’s a bad idea to leave cats and dogs outside to fend for themselves in the deep snow and bone-chilling temperatures. If your pets are not allowed inside, then put them in some sort of shelter, whether it’s a garage, storage shed or doghouse. Make outdoor shelters warmer with straw, batting or other insulating materials. Position the opening away from the wind.

Gail Mackie, executive director of SpokAnimal C.A.R.E., offers a helpful rule of thumb: Put on your hat, gloves and coat. Go outside. When it gets uncomfortable for you, it’s also uncomfortable for your pets. And, no, that adorable sweater won’t keep them warm for long.

Most animal welfare organizations have good advice on their Web sites. Among the tips:

•Keep in mind that dogs aren’t wearing boots. They’re paws can quickly freeze. That jog with your dog is a lot more painful for her than you.

•Clear a potty path and keep an eye on your dogs when letting them out. They can get stuck in deep drifts or pull muscles trying to extricate themselves. Accompany older arthritic dogs, which might need your help getting around.

•When your pets come inside, dry their paws and inspect for clumps of ice. Their paws can easily get chapped or cut after an outdoor romp.

•Regularly change their outside water, because it doesn’t take long to freeze. Their tongues can stick to metal bowls. Try plastic.

•Pets pick up a lot of moisture, so keep their bedding dry.

•Make sure pets don’t ingest rock salt, chemical de-icers and antifreeze.

•If pets are outside a lot, you may need to feed them more. They burn more calories when warding off the cold.

•Avoid long outdoor stays followed by long indoor periods, and vice versa. Extreme temperature variation makes pets more susceptible to infectious diseases.

•Cats might cuddle up to a parked vehicle’s engine. Bang the hood before starting the car.

Pets aren’t any better suited to the elements than their owners. Just because they’re furry doesn’t mean they’re impervious to the cold.