Pets

How to avoid summer pet hazards

Pets need to be watched all year round to make sure they sure they stay fit and healthy (and don’t get into things they shouldn’t!); but summer can bring additional hazards. Here’s what you need to look out for.

November 17, 2022

Heatstroke

This can be a major problem for pets in summer. Symptoms include heavy panting or difficulty breathing, vomiting, increased heart rate and excess saliva.  

How to keep your pets cool in summer  

Ticks  

Spring and summer can be a prime time for ticks. They can make your pet very sick and can even be fatal, so you should check them regularly using your fingertips to feel carefully through fur. Ticks or tick craters can be felt as lumps on the skin surface. Most ticks are found forward of the front legs, especially on the face, neck, and ears, but search everywhere, just in case.

Signs your pet has been affected by ticks

Fleas

Fleas are a year-round problem but are most active during spring and summer. Make sure you keep up to date with flea preventative treatment.  

How to spot fleas  

Heartworm

The bad news is that the transmission of heartworm is at its worst in summer; the good news is, it’s totally preventable. You must make sure you use heartworm prevention treatment all year round, with no breaks, for full protection.

Flystrike

Flystrike is a painful and sometimes fatal condition caused by flies laying their eggs on your pet. These hatch into maggots, which eat the flesh of their 'hosts'. Check your pet regularly for signs of illness or abnormal behaviour.

Blue-green algae

This can form in ponds and lakes during hot weather and can produce toxins which are dangerous to dogs and cats. Don’t let them paddle or swim in affected water and don’t let them drink from it

Horticultural hazards

Keep your pets away from hazards in the garden.

Houseplants that are poisonous to cats  

Toxic plants that could harm your pet

Always contact your vet if you suspect your pet has come into contact with any of these hazards, or they are unwell. Signs your cat may be unwell

Source: rspca

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