RSPCA issues advice as temperatures drop to below freezing in the UK: How to keep animals safe

With temperatures plummeting  below freezing in many parts of the UK this week due to the Arctic blast, the RSPCA is urging people to follow its pressing advice and top tips to keep pets, livestock and wildlife safe and warm.

With night-time temperatures dropping as low as -10C with yellow warnings for snow and ice issued across the country, the animal welfare charity is calling for people to do their bit to help animals as the freezing weather could be detrimental to their health.

RSPCA inspectorate commissioner Dermot Murphy said: “It’s really important we help our animal friends get through the chilly weather, and we’ve got lots of helpful advice and tips available for people to make sure their own pets, and local wildlife, are kept safe.

“Wild animals will be struggling in this icy weather, facing challenges such as dehydration, hunger and cold. But a few little changes to your everyday routine can really make a difference to animals. For example, a little bit of extra food left out for a hungry bird may be the help it needs to last through a spate of frosty weather.”

RSPCA’s top tips to keep your pet safe in the cold weather

Keep a close eye on outdoor pets like rabbits and guinea pigs

If the temperature starts to drop below freezing, you may wish to move your bunny inside. Guinea pigs are to be housed indoors when temperatures are below 15C. When indoors, they still need plenty of time and room to exercise safely.

If you have to leave them outside, provide them with lots of extra bedding and make sure their home is protected from adverse weather with insulating but ventilating covers. Hutches should be in a sheltered position, with a sloped roof and should be raised off the ground at least 4ins.

Cats must have constant access to the house or to a warm, indoor area.

You should also ensure the cat’s bedding or sleeping area is warm, dry and away from any draughts. Cats will need to be able to feel free to get back into the house or a warm area such as an outbuilding or barn. “You should also ensure the cat’s bedding or sleeping area is warm, dry and away from any draughts.”

Keep antifreeze and rock salt away from pets

These products are commonly used this time of year to get rid of frost on cars or roads and they can be poisonous to pets. These products must be kept out of reach and if you are concerned your pet may have ingested anything they shouldn’t have, owners should speak to their vet immediately.