Autumn Pet Safety Tips: Keeping Pets Safe in Autumn

The days are getting shorter, the kids are back at school, and there’s an unmistakable chill in the morning air. This can only mean one thing. Autumn is almost here. As we prepare to manage the change in seasons, we also need to consider how this might affect our pets.  

Below, we look at some common dangers to pets in autumn and share our top tips for keeping your furry friend happy and healthy during the colder seasons. 

We pay a lot of attention to the changing leaves at this time of year, but between the leaves you'll also find a lot of acorns and conkers littering any woodland walk. 

But, did you know that acorns and chesnuts (conkers) can be harmful to dogs? 

Acorns contain tannins, which are poisonous to dogs, causing digestive upset, but dogs that eat multiple (or too many) acorns can face more severe effects, like kidney or liver damage. 

Horse Chestuts (commonly called Conkers after the childhood game), are also rife this time of year, and falling off of trees in parks, along woodland walks, or even just beside the road. While horse chestnuts are not severly toxic to pets, they do contain a compound known as aesculin, which can cause a number of gastrointestinal problems in dogs. 

If your dog eats either acorns or a conker, you can expect typical signs of poisoning, such as: 

• Vomiting (sometimes with blood)
• Stomach pain
• Lethargy
• Shaking or tremors
• Red, itchy skin

Both conkers and acorns are also a choking hazard for dogs who pick them up. Conkers, in particular, can get quite big, making it easy to become lodged in your dog's throat or intestines. 

If you notice your dog showing any symptoms of poisoning, or you're concerned your dog has eaten an acorn or horse chestnut, you should call your vet as soon as possible. 

The first thing you should do if you think your dog has eaten something toxic 

Cooler temperatures mean many motorists will start using antifreeze in their cars, but what they don't know is that most commercial antifreeze solutions are toxic to both cats and dogs. 

Antifreeze uses a chemical called ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic and can be disastrous to your pet if they consume it. Ethylene Glycol poisoning is life-threating, with as little as a single tablespoon of antifreeze being enough to cause acute kidney failure in dogs.

Cats are even more at risk of poisoning as they're bodies are much smaller, so can face disatrous effects from drinking as little as 1ml per kilogram of body weight. 

Pets can find antifreeze in many places, including: 

• Leaking car radiators
• Spilt antifreeze on paths, tarmac, and drives
• Treated outdoor fountains or water features

To keep your pet safe from anti-freeze, try to: 

• Avoid using antifreeze, or switch to a pet-safe antifreeze that uses Propylene glycol instead. 
• Clean any anti-freeze spillages immediately. 
• Don't allow pets to drink from fountains or water features while outdoors. 
• Screw caps as tight as possible and store all anti-freeze bottles securely where pets can't reach them. 

The symptoms of anti-freeze poisoning in cats and dogs are very similar, so we've listed them together.

If you notice any of the below symptoms in your pet, call your emergency vet immediately or contact the Animal Poison Line at 01202 50 9000.  

Symptoms of anti-freeze poisoning include:  

• Unsteadiness, staggering or wobbliness 
• Twitching eyes or muscles 
• Excessive drinking or thirst 
• Vomiting and diarrhoea  
• Loss of appetite  
• Seizures  

Anti-freeze poisonings are often deadly for pets, even in small amounts. If you suspect your pet has drunk anti-freeze, take them to a vet immediately. The sooner they get help, the better their chances of getting better. 

Autumn is all about change, and while we embrace the leaves changing colour, celebrating holidays, or the kids going back to school, the disruption in your pet's routine can cause stress and anxiety in pets.

Bonfire Night and Halloween can be particular stressful for pets with all the loud noises, costumes, and frequent visitors to the house, which is why maintaing a sense of calm in the autumn for our pets is essential. 

Below, we outline how best to manage situational anxiety in pets at this time of year.  

With the summer holidays over, your pet may find themselves alone far more than they have been. This can cause them to be stressed when left alone, leading to behavioural issues like barking, home destruction, and even bathroom accidents inside.  

Separation anxiety is a complicated problem that many owners face, but there are some ways to ease your pet's anxiety, such as:  

• Exercise: Before you leave, try to take your pet out for a walk or engage in active play so they can nap while you're gone.  
• Mental Stimulation: Keep your pet distracted to help them cope better with their fear or anxiety. Interactive toys, puzzle toys, and long-lasting treat toys like KONGs or LickiMats® are great for this! 
• Safe spaces: Provide a safe space for your pet to retreat when things are stressful. A crate, a bed, a cat tree, or wherever your pet feels most comfortable. Make sure it's nice and cosy, with toys and blankets to make them feel safe.  
• Use Calmers: There are loads of calming aids available on the market, with some utiliing pheromones, such as FELIWAY diffusers for cats, or natural ingredients with calming properties, such as Zylkene Calming Supplements. Calmers are also available as treats, chews, or supplements, so there's something for everyone!
• Counter-conditioning: Begin by leaving your pet alone for short periods of time (a few minutes to start). Reward them for good behaviour during this time. If your pet stays calm, you can extend the time they're alone until they feel safe and comfortable when you're not there.  

In more severe cases, prescription anti-anxiety medication for dogs or cats may be necessary. These treatments are only available with a valid vet's prescription. Speak to your vet if you think your pet has separation anxiety.

Learn more about Separation Anxiety in Dogs and Separation Anxiety in Cats in our blogs.

Pets and fireworks rarely make a good combination. The loud noises and flashing lights can easily cause anxiety as they don't understand why it's happening. Loud noises can scare pets outside or on walks, making them panic and try to run away. 

To ensure your pet feels safe this fireworks season, try:  

• Find when fireworks displays are happening and keep your pet inside during this time.  
• Keep windows and curtains closed. This will prevent your pet from seeing the fireworks and can help muffle the noise.  
• Distract your pet with toys or long-lasting treats. 
• Create a cosy, safe space for your pet to hide in if things become too much, such as a crate, room, or bed.  
• Introduce calming aids a week before displays are planned to allow them to take effect in time.

You can learn more about keeping your pet calm during fireworks in our blog.

While the sun might not set until late evening at the moment, the closer we get to December, the longer the nights become. Making sure that you and your pet are seen is essential this time of year, as well as making sure your pet is warm and cosy during cooler nights. 

No matter where you live, walking in the dark without any reflective wear is dangerous for both you and your pet, as motorists may not be able to see you. Dogs may also become disoriented or spooked in the dark, especially during the fireworks season, so make sure to keep them on leashes when walking. 

You can also ensure your dog's safety in the dark by: 

• Wearing reflective safety clothing. 
• Carrying a torch on walks. You can even get dog walking accessories like this ANCOL® Dog Poop Bag Dispenser Torch.
• Equip yourself with dog walking-in-the-dark accessories (such as high-visibility dog coats, a high-visibility dog vest, or light-up dog accessories) 
• Keep your dog on a leash to prevent them from getting started and running away. 

In the autumn, outdoor cats face a higher risk of getting hit by cars because drivers struggle to see them in low light. To keep your cat safe at night, try the following:  

• Keeping them indoors at night 
• Using reflective cat collars or light-up collar charms 
• Ensure you microchip your cat, as required by law, since June 10th, 2024. 

If your cat doesn't typically spend evenings in the house, try to encourage a curfew in time with their dinner. Make sure when your cat comes in for food that it can't get back out, and ensure it has plenty of places to play, climb, or hide to distract it from being indoors longer than usual.  

Autumn weather can be temperamental. Some days are clear and mild, while others are wet and windy. This can be difficult for pets with existing conditions, as the cold and wet may exacerbate symptoms. Too much time in the wet and cold can also lead to other health issues in pets, ranging from the common cold to pneumonia. 

It's especially important to monitor pets with heart or respiratory conditions at this time of year as they are more prone to infections. If you're ever concerned about how your pet copes with the cold, ask your vet for recommendations.  

You can also help to support your pet during autumn weather by:  

• Providing your pet with a warm, cosy spot indoors.  
• Drying your pet off with a pet towel when they come inside 
• Washing and drying your pet's paws - especially after walking in muddy areas. 
• Provide a shelter for outdoor pets with a sloped roof and plenty of blankets. 
• Have your dog wear a coat on walks to keep them dry.  

Walking dogs in wet and cold weather can feel like a chore for many owners, and some pets don't like it very much either. However, there are many ways to keep your pet happy on rainy days. You can keep pets happy indoors by using toys like snuffle mats and treat toys or playing games like fetch with your dog.  

Many older pets suffer from arthritis as they get older. The wet and cold can exacerbate this condition, making their joints stiff and reducing mobility. Giving your cat or dog joint supplements this autumn can help them stay active, even when it is cold. These supplements can also reduce some arthritis symptoms.  

Keeping pets warm is essential if they suffer from arthritis, so always have a soft, cosy bed for them to return to.  

Grooming your pet is a year-round task, but you may need to do so more often this time of year. Not only is your pet likely to get wet or muddy, but shedding season is also around this time as pets shed their summer coats and grow their winter ones.  

How much your pet sheds this time of year will depend on their breed, coat style, and more. By being familiar with your pet's grooming needs, you can help their skin and coat stay healthy during this time.  

Generally, you can stay on top of your pet's grooming this autumn by: 

• Brushing your pet regularly removes dead hair and prevents matting, especially in longer-coated breeds.  
  
• Bathing your pet regularly can help remove dead hair and skin from your pet's coat.  
  
• Vacuuming more frequently to pick up the extra fluff and hair.  
  
• Deshed your pet using a suitable deshedding brush for cats & dogs. 

Pets with long fur or double coats need particular care this time of year as their coats can take longer to dry. Bacteria thrive in moist, warm conditions, and a damp coat can make for the perfect environment. This leaves your pet more susceptible to skin problems or bacterial infections. 

Always dry your pet well after a bath or when they come in from outside. Use pet towels like the DotDotDog Bamboo Dog Towel. It dries quickly and is great for bathtime or on the go! You can also use pet-safe cleaning wipes like these Animology® Clean Sheets Cleansing Wipes to remove dirt or mud from your pet. Just pop a pack in your car, and you're ready for whatever adventure awaits!

By considering these hazards, you can take the necessary steps to ensure your pet stays safe this autumn. If you're looking for products to help your pet stay safe this autumn, then check out our great range of Autumn Essentials, including high-visibility accessories, joint care supplements, and anxiety treatments.