Category Uncategorized

Introducing the New 4cats Japan Limited Edition: A Purr-fect Delight for Feline Friends! – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

07
Jul

If you’re a devoted cat parent, you understand the endless joy and entertainment that come from seeing your beloved feline companion happily engaged with their toys.

And when it comes to high-quality and irresistible cat toys, few brands can rival the innovation and excellence of 4cats. Their latest creation, the 4cats Japan Limited Edition, is bound to captivate the hearts of cats and their owners alike with its unique design and premium materials.

One of the standout features of the 4cats cat toys is the choice of using either valerian or catnip as the cat attract filling material.

Both valerian and catnip are natural herbs that have been used for centuries to stimulate and entertain cats. However, each herb has distinct qualities that can affect cats in different ways, ensuring a personalized experience for every feline friend. Valerian, known for its strong, musky scent, is particularly enchanting to cats. The aroma acts as a powerful attractant, instantly piquing their curiosity and playfulness.

Cats who are typically more aloof or picky about toys will find it difficult to resist the allure of valerian-filled toys. The impact of valerian on cats can vary, but it often induces a state of euphoria, relaxation, and increased playfulness.


Cats may roll around, purr, bat at the toy enthusiastically, or engage in energetic play sessions, providing them with much-needed mental and physical stimulation.

On the other hand, catnip is a classic favorite among feline enthusiasts. Its distinctive minty scent has an exhilarating effect on cats, often leading to a frenzy of excitement and playfulness.

Cats who are normally laid-back or even lazy may suddenly transform into bundles of energy, leaping, pouncing, and chasing their 4cats Japan Limited Edition toys with zeal. This herb not only encourages exercise but also provides a healthy outlet for a cat’s hunting instincts, preventing boredom and promoting overall well-being.

Aside from the choice of filling material, the 4cats Japan Limited Edition boasts a variety of additional benefits that will undoubtedly appeal to both cats and their owners.


Firstly, the toys are meticulously crafted using premium materials, ensuring durability and longevity. This means that even the most enthusiastic play sessions won’t easily wear out or damage these toys, making them an excellent investment for any cat owner.

Furthermore, 4cats toys are designed to be visually stimulating, with vibrant colors and attractive shapes that capture a cat’s attention effortlessly. The toys come in a range of sizes and styles, catering to different play preferences.

Whether your cat prefers to bat around a lightweight kicker toy, wrestle with a large cushion, or cuddle up with one of their cuddly cushions, there is a 4cats Japan Limited Edition toy to suit every feline’s individual taste. Also, 4cats takes pride in their commitment to animal welfare and eco-friendliness. Where possible toys are made using sustainable materials, ensuring that your purchase contributes to the well-being of the environment.

Additionally, the company actively supports animal shelters and rescue organizations, fostering a sense of social responsibility that resonates with many cat lovers.

Conclusion: The 4cats Japan Limited Edition is a truly exceptional addition to the world of feline entertainment. With the choice of valerian or catnip, these toys offer a personalized experience for every cat, enticing them with their irresistible scents.

The durable craftsmanship, visually appealing designs, and commitment to animal welfare make the 4cats Japan Limited Edition an investment that will bring endless hours of joy to both cats and their devoted owners.

So why wait? Treat your furry friend to the ultimate playtime experience with the 4cats Japan Limited Edition and witness the happiness and contentment that only well-crafted toys can bring!

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Cheshire cat Lucky to Survive After Going Into Labour on Roadside Near Rail Tracks – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

04
Jun

Lily was rescued by the RSPCA and later gave birth to four kittens

The RSPCA is appealing for information after a cat was found giving birth on the side of a country road near Chester.

The black long-haired cat was rushed to a local vet by the animal charity after she was spotted by a member of the public near to a railway crossing on Lache Lane at Balderton early in the afternoon of Wednesday, May 10.

The young cat was struggling with her labour – a stillborn kitten was stuck in her birth canal – and she needed to undergo a caesarean section.

Under surgery she was able to give birth to four of her kittens, although another was also stillborn.

RSPCA animal rescue officer Melanie Froude says the cat, who has been named Lily, looked to have been well cared for before her surgery and while she is not microchipped the officer is appealing for her owner to get in touch or for anyone who may know of her background.

“It was very fortunate that someone noticed this poor cat struggling by the side of the road. The lady realised she was in difficulty and took her back to her home in nearby Dodleston before calling us,” said the animal rescue officer. “We were able to give Lily the care she needed and she gave birth to four kittens, who are doing well.

“On the basis of her appearance she doesn’t look like she is a stray. I made door-to-door enquiries at properties near to where she was found and I put up a few posters as well. So far no-one has come forward, but maybe someone is worried about the whereabouts of their cat? Or someone might know who the owners of this lovely, friendly cat are, and I would urge them to get in touch.”

After recovering from her surgery at a private boarding cattery, Lily is due to go into the care of RSPCA Bryn-y-Maen Animal Centre in Colwyn Bay. She will be rehomed if an owner does not come forward.

Anyone with any information is asked to call the RSPCA appeals line number on 0300 123 8018.

To help the RSPCA continue rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming animals in desperate need of care please visit our website or call our donation line on 0300 123 8181.

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Hot Weather Alert – Encourage Your Cats to Drink More! – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

26
May

Hi everyone,

With the temperatures soaring we thought it would be a perfect opportunity to remind everyone of the tips and advice to help your cat stay hydrated.

Especially when it’s hot it’s very important to keep an eye on the amount of liquid your cat is taking in. Plain bowls often make this difficult which is why we personally rely on the Necoichi Water Bowls which have a handy measurement in ml to show you how much water is left in the bowl at the end of the day!

Of course, it’s important to experiment with the type of bowl you offer your cat but generally, we would recommend avoiding plastic bowls and opting for one made of ceramic, glass, or metal. Also some cats prefer to drink from a fountain as they prefer to have moving forward over still water.

One thing that has to be taken to mind though is that most cats do not like it when their whiskers constantly rub against the sides of a bowl and this applies to both drinking and water. Quite often when we get contacted by people that have problems with their cats eating or drinking habits it’s quickly identified that the cat is suffering from what’s called Whiskers fatigue due to the continuous use of a very small bowl for the daily food intake.

And in fact, for some breeds such as Persian cats which have a very flat face, it might even be worth opting for an extra-wide shallow raised bowl for food and water as it’ll make it easier for them to get to the water!

What else can you do to encourage your cat to drink their water? If your cat simply does not seem to be interested in their water no matter what you can try and supplement the tap water with:

  • Water left over when a piece of chicken or fish has been cooked by poaching
  • Liquid from a can of tuna in spring water
  • Prawns, fish, or meat liquidised in water to create a soup or broth

This will often encourage cats that do not drink a lot of water to lap up the liquid as they can smell and taste the meat in the water/soup! With the hot weather, it’s furthermore a great idea to freeze these supplements into small ice cubes (maybe not quite as big as this video!) to put them into your cat’s water bowl. Not just will it make the water source more interesting but it’ll also ensure that the water stays COOL at all times.

The number of water bowls also plays an important part. First of all you have to have sufficient bowls per cat. If your cats get along well, they may be happy to share the same bowl but don’t expect this! So ensure you have multiple water (and food bowls) scattered around your house.

And of course the other thing we often notice is that people place the water bowl right next to the food bowl. While this is fine for most cats, some cats follow the instinct that water near a food source could be spoiled and will therefore avoid this water source. If you notice that your cat refuses to drink from their bowl and it is near a food source, try and move it!

And if all else fails and you are concerned your cat might be de-hydrated, many companies sell liquid snacks which you can give your cat as a supplementary treat that will also re-hydrate them.

Thanks,

Marc

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Battersea Offers Tips to Keep Pets Safe During hot Weather – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

25
May

With temperatures forecasted to reach the highest of the year so far this week, leading animal welfare charity, Battersea, is offering tips and tricks to keep your pets healthy and happy during the warmer weather. 

Claire Turner, Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Battersea, said: “With temperatures set to hit over 25C this week across many parts of the south, there is lots for us humans to look forward to. However, with warmer weather comes dangers for our pets like heat exhaustion, so it’s important to keep your pets safe with simple tricks like providing them with plenty of water options and shady spots. Many pets start to struggle when temperatures hit around the mid-twenties, but for popular Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as Pugs and French Bulldogs, breathing difficulties can become a problem at temperatures as low as 20C. 

“Following Battersea’s useful tips, owners can ensure their dogs and cats are safe whilst enjoying the sunny weather, from finding ways to use up their energy that are less strenuous to knowing the signs of heat stroke and not worrying if your dog misses a few days of exercise. Most importantly, if your pet seems unwell as a result of the heat, seek veterinary advice urgently.” 

Battersea’s top tips for keeping your pet safe in hot weather: 

TIP 1 – CARE WITH WALKS 

If the weather is hot AVOID WALKING YOUR DOG. Dogs are less able to cope than humans in the heat. Even a warm day can cause dogs to overheat, especially if exercising. Therefore, if the weather is warm consider if your dog may be safer going for a gentle walk very early or late in the evening, when the temperature has significantly reduced, or do some stimulating activities at home (see Tip 7). Be mindful of the weather when planning a walk, take regular breaks in the shade and offer your dog water.

TIP 2 – PLENTY OF WATER 

Water is essential for your pets all year round, especially on a hot day. If you’re out and about with your dog, make sure you always have a bottle of water and a bowl for them to drink from. Ensure cats have constant access to fresh water and provide multiple water options, including an outdoor source will give your cat plenty of options for hydrating 
 

TIP 3 – NEVER LEAVE PETS IN CARS 

Leaving an animal alone in a hot car can be fatal – even parked in the shade with the windows open, dogs can become distressed and uncomfortable and develop heat stroke very quickly. Make sure you always have a plan, so your pet isn’t left alone in the car or any other enclosed spaces. If you see an animal in a hot car, dial 999. 

You should avoid travelling in your car with your pet on a hot day. If you do need to travel, make sure that you use shade covers on the windows, so they don’t have direct sun on them whilst you are travelling. If possible cool your car down and have the air conditioning on before putting your pet in. Avoid travelling at hotter times of the day and consider travelling when there is less traffic, so you don’t get stuck for long periods of time. Ensure your pet has access to water throughout the journey – there are some great non-splash travel bowls available on the market. 

TIP 4 – KEEP YOUR PET COOL AT HOME 

There are many additional ways you can help your dog or cat to stay cool in hot weather, you can: 

·       Encourage them to stay in shaded areas and away from direct sunlight 

·       Put down cold damp towels for them to lie on if they choose 

·       Put a garden sprinkler on in shaded garden areas for dogs 

·       Keep a paddling pool in the shade for dogs to gently splash about in 

·       You can purchase cooling mats and coats from our shop 

·       Try out some tasty frozen pet-friendly recipes like ice lollies. Using natural ingredients, pet ice lollies are not only a delicious way to help your pet in the heat but a nutritious snack, too 

·       For your cat, try freezing the water from a can of tuna along with a few tuna flakes for your them to lick 

TIP 5 – PROTECT YOUR PET’S PAWS FROM HOT SURFACES 

Surfaces which heat up in the sun, such as tarmac or sand, can be painful for your pet’s paws and can cause burns in extreme heat. If in doubt, check for yourself. If it feels too hot for you to touch, the chances are your pet is thinking the same, so try to stick to grassy or shaded areas for dog walks instead and make sure if you have a cat that goes outside to ensure they have free access to come indoors if they want. 

TIP 6 – USE UP THEIR ENERGY IN DIFFERENT WAYS 

In warmer weather it’s a good idea to find ways to use up your pet’s mental and physical energy which are less strenuous. For example, if they usually like to run for hours at a time this could be detrimental in hotter temperatures. Instead, you could hide their toys or treats in a small area and let them sniff them out, or you could freeze their food or use frozen treats in food puzzle toys to keep them stimulated. You could also use toys or treats to encourage your dog to spend some time in a shaded paddling pool or for your cat to spend time in a shaded cooler area. Whatever activities you choose, make sure they are calm and out of the heat.  

TIP 7 – SWIMMING 

It can be tempting to encourage your dog to swim, especially when the weather is warmer. Be mindful that some places can be unsafe, have strong currents that can be dangerous or algae and bacteria which could make your dog sick.  

Instead, try to find clear, clean shallow streams your dog can paddle in briefly to cool off, ensure you provide them with clean water in a water bowl for them to drink and continue with your walk in the coolest parts of the day.

TIP 8 – SUNCREAM 
Just like humans, dogs and cats are at risk of burning in the sun if they’re not properly protected – this is especially prominent in lightly coloured or thin coated dogs and cats. Cats can develop skin cancer from sun burns, even on cloudy days. Specially formulated sun cream for dogs and cats is available in most pet shops and should be applied to sun-sensitive areas of their bodies such as the end of the nose and tips of the ears. If you are not sure whether your pet needs sun cream, ask your vet for advice. 

TIP 9 – MOST IMPORTANTLY, LOOK OUT FOR SIGNS OF HEAT STROKE 

Dogs – Dogs suffer with heatstroke when they overheat. This can happen in warm temperatures, as well as when it is hot. It is important to know how to avoid it and be aware of the signs as it requires URGENT VETERINARY TREATMENT. Heatstroke develops when a dog can’t reduce their body temperature and it can be fatal.  

Any dog can develop heatstroke, but overweight, young, elderly, flat-faced, giant-breed, and thick-coated dogs are particularly at risk, even from just sitting out in hot weather. 

Signs of heatstroke:  

·       Heavy panting 

·       Lethargic/drowsy 

·       Staggering/loss of coordination/disorientation/confusion 

·       Excessive salivation/drooling/foaming at the mouth 

·       Vomiting/diarrhoea 

·       Shaking/weakness/collapse 

·       Seizures 

·       Death 

If you think your dog has heatstroke, you need to ACT FAST.  

Make sure you contact your vet immediately if you suspect your dog has heatstroke. 

While contacting the vets: 

·       Move the dog to a shaded and cool area 

·       Keep them calm and still 

·       Put them on top of a cool wet towel or place them in the breeze of a fan  

·       Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water  

·       Pour cool (not cold to avoid shock) water over the dogs feet, ears and head. 

·       Gradually start to move cool water over their body but not too much that they start shivering. 

·       If possible, continue cooling your dog on the way to your vet 

** Never use ice or very cold water as this can cause shock **  

Cats – Cats can develop skin cancer from sun burns, even on cloudy days. Keep an eye on your cats’ behaviour and know the signs of heatstroke. If your cat is displaying odd behaviour or you notice any skin changes during hot days, contact your vet immediately. Signs of heatstroke in cats include: 

·       Agitation 

·       Stretching out and breathing rapidly 

·       Extreme distress 

·       Skin hot to the touch 

·       Glazed eyes 

·       Vomiting and drooling 

For more advice on how to keep your dogs and cats cool in the summer heat, please visit: https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice

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RSPCA Paul O’Grady Tribute With Pictures and Video – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

17
Apr

Chris Sherwood, chief executive of the RSPCA, said: “Paul O’Grady’s love for animals and the incredible way he told their stories inspired countless families to re-home rescue pets and give them a second chance of happiness.

“His tireless campaigning saw Paul recognised with an RSPCA Animal Hero Award for his outstanding contribution to animal welfare, while he once adopted a little lamb Winston from us who had been rescued from a wheelie bin. 

“The thoughts of all at the RSPCA are with his loved ones and our friends at Battersea at this difficult and sad time.”

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Meet Pisa: Cat Freed From Rubble Following Earthquake in Turkey Finds New Home With Rescuer – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

13
Apr

Norfolk, Va. — As work to rebuild Turkey ramps up after last month’s devastating earthquake, one little cat who survived the disaster is now rebuilding his life with a PETA rescuer who found him hiding in the rubble. As told in a new video, PETA fieldworker Alex Cutshall, who flew from his home in Virginia Beach to Turkey to help rescue as many animals as possible, found the cat in a dilapidated building that tilted just like the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

That’s how he got his name—Pisa—and a new home 8,000 miles away with his rescuer.In the video, Cutshall recounts how he and the plucky rescue team coaxed the terrified cat into a carrier. They soon learned that Pisa wasn’t microchipped, giving them no way to locate his family, if he even had one. So PETA had him cleared for travel, and he took to his new guardian’s lap on the flight home to Virginia, purring the entire time—the loudest purrs Cutshall says he’s ever heard.Left: Pisa with Cutshall and their family; Right: Pisa in rubble in Turkey“Pisa was so scared when we first found him, surrounded by crumbling buildings, his world in pieces, and with nothing to eat. There was no question he had to come home with me,” says Cutshall. “Today, our whole family is showing Pisa he’s safe and loved, and he’s enjoying life, from cuddling with the kids to playing with our two dogs and even bringing energy back to our elderly cat.”PETA’s Global Compassion Fund helps rescuers respond to animal emergencies around the globe at a moment’s notice. Rescue teams in Turkey have climbed into collapsed buildings to find injured animals, whisked starving animals off the street, and even used a crane to reach a cat who had been stuck in a fourth-floor apartment for 12 days, desperate for food and water (video here). More animals’ stories are available here.PETA—whose motto reads, “Animals are not ours to experiment on, eat, wear, use for entertainment, or abuse in any other way”—opposes speciesism, a human-supremacist worldview. For more information about PETA’s lifesaving work, please visit PETA.org, listen to The PETA Podcast, or follow the group on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram.

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Because we Love our Cats: The Cuddly Hearts by 4cats – Katzenworld

by Product Reviews, Uncategorized

10
Feb

If cats gave each other presents to show they liked each other, I’m sure they would give their cat friends one of the 4cats Cuddly Hearts. That is if they can bear to part with this lovely and soft toy….

No, I haven’t seen the Cuddly Heart…

The Cuddly Heart is really super soft and feels quite luxurious. It’s quite big, so your cat can give it a proper pounce or kick, but Dirk prefers cuddling with it and then sleeping with it. It’s maybe not the most energizing toy or one that will give your cat some exercise, but then 4cats have plenty of other toys to do just that.

As you can see, Dirk is more than happy to snuggle with it.

Dirk’s Cuddly Heart actually hasn’t left his cardboard box bed for a while. He’s often asleep on top of it or just grabbing a hold of it. He tends to play with it when he’s chilling inside the box.

All this snuggling and cuddling is of course exhausting in its own way. So what better way to relax than one last cuddle and pose and then it’s time for a nap!

The Cuddly Heart comes with a catnip or valerian filling, so you can keep your cat happy no matter which they prefer.
The colour is actually a gorgeous deep red, but apparently a bit tricky for my camera to process.

Product used in this review:

4cats Cuddly Heart

Alternative even more luxurious design:

4cats – Plush Heart – Catnip or Valerian cat toy

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A Rusty-Spotted Cat – The Smallest Feline in the World – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

28
Jan

He may look like a kitten or even fit in the palm of your hand, but this little male is nearly fully grown. What he lacks in size he makes up for endearing. Young cats are born curious. It is how they learn about their world, even if it gets them into trouble. His eyes are six times more powerful than humans. His senses are sensitive to the slightest of movements and today from Review Tales, I wish to discuss “The rusty-spotted cat” and hope that you enjoy reading it.

Even though they are to be unique in being small, not much is known about their ecology or behavior in the wild. These cats feed on rodents and birds. They also hunt lizards, frogs, and insects.

They can be located in India and Sri Lanka. How rare are they? Studies show that there are only 36 of them worldwide.

Nineteenth-century British physician and zoologist Thomas C. Jerdon kept a number of rusty-spotted cats in his home for research, and according to Wild Cats of the World by Swiss naturalist and writer Charles Albert Walter Guggisberg, he said of them, “I had a kitten brought to me when very young in 1846, and it became quite tame and was the delight and admiration of all who saw it. Its activity was quite marvelous and it was very playful and elegant in its motions.”

That’s it for now. What do you think of this little-spotted friend of ours? It must feel pretty lonely to know that there are such few of them around.

Written by Jeyran Main

Home

Some information was obtained from IUCN Wild Cats Book.

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Working with Animals – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

24
Jan

For many of us, the new year prompts us to review our life goals. It’s a time when we consider if we are happy in our current job/career and, if not, what we can do to change it; after all we spend a large part of our life at work, so it is important that we enjoy our work.

Before pursuing any new job or career, it’s advisable to do some research to make sure that it suits your personal qualities, and fits with any goals, responsibilities and ambitions you have.

If you are considering a career change to something more meaningful or rewarding to you, you may be considering working with animals, If so, read on…

________________________________

If you have not worked with animals before, you may be asking:

Do I need qualifications and experience?

Whilst it is true, that for some jobs, qualifications and previous experience will be essential, there are other jobs that will provide training on the job and may even support you to undertake an apprenticeship or other qualification alongside your role. If you want to upskill and learn more about animals before making a career change, why not consider volunteering? It can increase your confidence, enhance your CV and give you an insight into future roles. There are also many colleges and universities that offer distance learning or part time animal related courses that can be undertaken to give you an advantage when applying for future jobs. Take some time to investigate your options as upskilling may be more possible than you think!

Will the salary be adequate?

Working with animals is generally low paid, particularly when starting out. So if a high salary is very important to you, then you will have to think about what type of job you should aim for, and whether it is feasible. Often salaries increase with experience and responsibilities so look at the bigger, long-term picture and keep that goal in mind.

Am I too old to change career?

The simple answer is no! People of all ages change career to work with animals. In fact, in many jobs it will be your ability to work and communicate with other people that will be equally as important as looking after the animals. Life skills you will have previously gained in other areas can be looked on very favourably by employers.

____________________________

So, what opportunities are there?

The opportunities are vast. Below, we have taken a look at a few, more common roles:

The Veterinary Industry
The veterinary industry has a few key roles. Veterinary surgeons (vets) who diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. Veterinary nurses who work alongside vets to care for animals, assist with procedures and advise owners on health and wellbeing. Veterinary care assistants who support both vets and veterinary nurses in practice; caring for animals and ensuring high standards of cleanliness. Veterinary receptionists and practice managers who keep provide managerial and administration support to ensure the smooth running of the practice.

Charity work
There are lots of different types of animal charities doing a variety of work such as rescuing and rehoming animals, educating people on the care of animals, training assistance animals and those involved in animal assisted interventions, and conducting research on animal behaviour and welfare. The nature of each role and its entry requirements will vary. Visit the careers sections of some of the animal charities that you are interested in to find out what roles are available and the entry requirements that are needed.

Animal trainer/behaviourist
To become an animal trainer and/or behaviourist you will need qualifications and experience. The opportunities are vast once qualified, for example, you could run your own training business, or work for a charity training dogs, or work in academia teaching others.

There are many different courses and qualifications available and it can be hard to know which are recognised by the industry. If you choose a qualification approved by the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) you can’t go far wrong.

___________________________

How do I get started?

There is no better time to get started than now! Below are four top tips to help you on your way:

  1. Research – take a look at websites of organisations that you are interested in, A-Z of Animal Career Profiles | CAW Careers Advice and general online job boards to see what jobs are out there and what you need to do to be in a position to apply for them.
  2. Network – reach out to others who already have established careers doing what you feel might suit you. They can help you gain an insight what to expect and offer advice on how to achieve your goals. Many people are happy to share their experiences, but if you are uncomfortable emailing strangers there are groups on Facebook and LinkedIN where you can ask open questions and even build contacts.
  3. Attend careers events and college/university open days – these will give you the opportunity to speak to the relevant people and gather information about different careers and qualifications that may be open to you. Careers with Animals Day is an annual online careers event that is free and open to all.
  4. Gain experience – having hands on experience working with animals is invaluable and will boost your CV and confidence; see if you can source some regular voluntary work, this will also give you an insight into the work to help you decide if it really is what you were expecting.
  5. Take a course or qualification – before making the commitment to full time training or employment in the animal care or veterinary industry, you may wish to take a shorter course or qualification in animal care to help you gain more knowledge and understanding.

Whether this year is the year you decide to make that change, or if, after research you decide now is not the right time, good luck on your journey!

Why not bookmark the Society for Companion Animal Studies’ webpage on career and training opportunities relating to companion animals.

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RSPCA Shares brrr-illiant Tips to Keep Animals Warm in Cold Weather – Katzenworld

by Uncategorized

19
Jan

As a five-day cold snap grips, the RSPCA is urging people to remember animals

With temperatures plummeting to below freezing and heavy snowfall in many areas, the RSPCA is urging people to do their bit to help animals.

The Met Office has this week issued a number of yellow and amber weather warnings for snow and ice across the UK.

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.

“Already this week we have responded to a number of calls about animals being abandoned or left to fend for themselves in the freezing cold. We’ve seen dogs left tied up or outside with no shelter and horses and livestock struggling as their only water source has frozen over.

“Wild animals will also 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.”

Here are the RSPCA’s top cold weather tips:

  1. 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. We recommend guinea pigs are housed indoors when temperatures are below 15OC. If you do bring your pets 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.

  1. Ensure cats have constant access to the house or to a warm, indoor 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.

  1. Antifreeze and rock salt – commonly used at this time of year – can be poisonous to pets so keep any stored products out of their reach. If you’re concerned your pet may have ingested anything they shouldn’t, please speak to your vet immediately.

  2. If you have a pet who gets wet or cold, rub them dry with a towel and make sure they have plenty of warm bedding.

  3. If you have an elderly or sickly dog, you can buy a special coat or jumper to keep them warm when you’re out walking. Make sure your dog can still behave normally, for example, go to the toilet easily and that it is a good and comfortable fit.

  4. When walking your dog in the dark or riding your horse, wear reflective clothing and think about reflective protection for your pet too!

  5. Keep your pet dog away from frozen ponds, lakes or rivers which can pose a danger, and make sure their paws don’t get impacted with snow.

  6. If you keep pet birds in aviaries, coops, or runs, then you should also protect them from the cold weather. Provide plenty of additional dry, warm bedding such as straw and cover enclosures to keep the wind and rain out. Birds will eat more to keep warm in cold conditions so ensure the birds always have access to plenty of food and fresh water, ensuring water does not freeze over.

  7. Never house animals, including birds, in greenhouses and take caution if housing them in conservatories.

  8. If you have a fish pond, check it every day to make sure the surface is not entirely frozen as poisonous gasses can build up under the ice. Don’t break the ice as this can harm the fish, but carefully place a saucepan of hot water on the surface to gently melt a hole in the ice. Never tip boiling water straight onto the pond either, as this can also harm or kill any fish living there. And never try to use antifreeze or salt to thaw frozen ponds or birdbaths.

  9. Horses and livestock need extra care in the winter, such as adequate shelter to escape bad weather, extra feed as grass can be sparse, and regular checks on water troughs to keep them clear of ice. Give added protection with a waterproof rug, ensure they have access to dry standing areas, and check hooves regularly for loose shoes or signs of problems such as mud fever. Farmers and smallholders should give extra consideration to young animals and whether they need extra protection from the cold weather.

  10. Wildlife may need an extra helping hand during tough, winter conditions. Birds can struggle to find food during the winter months so, to help them stay strong over this period, householders can leave out extra food for them (like suitable seeds and grains such as oats and sunflower seeds; cooked pasta or rice; boiled potatoes, cheese, or uncooked unsalted bacon rind; raisins and sultanas; net-free fat or suet balls; apples, pears and soft fruits; insects such as mealworms or waxworms).

  11. Keep bird baths free of ice, leave out bowls of clean water, and keep feeders clean.

  12. Carefully check any wood or leaf piles for wild animals such as hedgehogs, frogs and mice before lighting any fires or bonfires. If you find wild animals in hibernation, be sure to leave them be.

  13. We don’t advise keeping dogs outside in any weather. Meeting the needs of dogs when they’re kept outside is very hard – and more so in very low temperatures. Owners should make sure their dogs have a clean, comfortable and dry sleeping area with a safe heat source so the temperature does not drop below 10OC.”

For more seasonal advice, visit the RSPCA website.

Remember – if you see an animal outside in the cold that looks like it is suffering, take a note of the location, the time and date and call the RSPCA on the emergency line 0300 1234 999.

Help the RSPCA protect animals this winter and join the Winter Rescue today.

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