Summer care

Keeping cool and sun protection

Make sure your pet has access to cool, shady areas in your house or backyard. Always make sure your pet has access to lots of cool drinking water. If you’re going out for the day, try dropping a few ice blocks into their water bottle or bowl, so that the water stays colder for longer.

> View more tips in keeping your pet cool during summer

Little pink noses are cute, but can easily become sunburnt. Your fair-skinned pet needs a special sunscreen for animals to protect it from the discomfort of sunburn and the added risk of skin cancer, so don’t forget that ‘slip, slop, slap’ doesn’t just apply to people.

Little pests

The warmer months are a prime time for fleas and ticks, with itches and bites adding to the discomfort heat can cause your pets. Ensure your pet is kept up to date with treatments to keep the itchiness at bay. If you need further information on the treatments available contact the RSPCA Veterinary Clinic or your local vet.

Poisonous plants

Many common household plants can be toxic to animals if ingested, including some beautiful summer bulbs.

Lilies are known to be one of the more dangerous plants and are particularly toxic for cats, so if you own a feline it’s best to steer clear from them altogether. Other summer plants to avoid include Gladiolas, Hydrangea and Ivy.

Signs your pet might have eaten a poisonous plant can include vomiting, lethargy,drooling and seizures. When taking your pet to the vet with suspected poisoning, it is a good idea to also take any material involved, such as chewed-up plant matter, so your vet has a better idea of what they’re treating.

Fireworks and thunderstorms

The loud noises associated with fireworks or summer thunderstorm season is one of the most prevalent phobias in animals, and result in tens of thousands of them demonstrating destructive behaviour, escaping from their properties and injuring themselves.

> View tips in helping your pet deal with loud noises

By taking some extra precautions, you and your pet will be happy and safe this summer!