Autumn is here and we’re so ready for cosy nights, crunching leaves and soggy walkies. This season comes with many fun opportunities for our pets like visiting the pumpkin patch or chasing leaves in the cool autumn wind. However, we need to remember the dangers that come with it, luckily Pawfit has put together a list of autumn dangers for pet parents to look out for!
Conkers
Try to keep your pets as far away from conkers as possible. Conkers contain a chemical called aesculin which is toxic to dogs. Symptoms of conker poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, shaking and lethargy. If your pet has ingested a conker and has any of these symptoms, contact their vet immediately. Conkers can also cause intestinal blockages if ingested. If swallowed whole, conkers can cause a blockage in your pet’s stomach, especially in smaller pets.
Antifreeze
Antifreeze is a household essential for many of us, however we need to be aware of the dangers it holds for our pets. Antifreeze is extremely dangerous to animals and can be fatal if ingested. It contains ethylene glycol which is highly toxic and can affect the nervous system and kidneys. Ethylene glycol has a sweet taste so pets may drink it, even a single teaspoon can kill a cat. If you think your pet has ingested antifreeze, contact their vet immediately.
Fireworks
Firework season is here, and we need to remember that fireworks can be dangerous for pets in several ways. Every year, thousands of pets suffer because of fireworks being let off. Animals have an acute sense of hearing and loud bangs from fireworks can cause pain in their ears. Fireworks also contain harmful chemicals which can be poisonous to pets including potassium nitrate, arsenic, charcoal, and sulphur. Make sure to keep your pet away from fireworks and leave your pet indoors with a radio or TV on.
Darker nights
The days are getting shorter, and the nights are getting darker. Its important that you keep both you and your pet visible on nighttime walks. As road traffic accidents are more common in the darker months, we recommend investing in torches, reflective jackets, collars, harnesses and leads so you stay seen and safe. Our Pawfit GPS Pet Tracker comes with a bright LED light which you can turn on through the Pawfit app – perfect for winter walkies.
Fleas
As the weather outside is becoming colder, most of us will be turning on our central heating. Our pets love the warmth of indoors, and so do fleas. Fleas continue to breed throughout the winter months and a single flea can lay up to 50 eggs per day. Make sure you’re keeping on top of your pet’s flea treatment through the colder months to ensure your pet and home stay flea free.
