Seasonal advice for your pets: Autumn
As the temperature drops and it gets dark earlier during the autumn months, it’s important to keep our pets safe.
Autumn hazards to pets for you to be aware of…
Poisonous toxins
Conkers
While serious cases of poisoning are rare, ingestion can cause marked gastro-intestinal signs such as drooling, retching, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. The conker’s case and conkers themselves can also cause intestinal blockages. Dogs usually vomit any ingested conkers quickly so treatment to control vomiting may be needed.
Rat poisons
Most, but not all, rodenticides in the UK contain anti-coagulant compounds that interfere with a rat’s ability to clot its own blood. One-off exposure to products bought in garden centres often does not cause problems. However, repeated exposure to products or exposure to professional rodent baits can cause disruption to a pet’s blood clotting ability and result in massive haemorrhage (bleeding). The effects may be delayed for several days and blood-clotting (coagulation) tests are often needed to determine if a pet is at risk of developing problems. Treatment involves giving an antidote and in severe cases transfusions of plasma or whole blood.
Luminous necklaces and glow sticks
The chemical mixture within luminous jewellery and glow sticks (often seen at Halloween & Bonfire night) is very irritating to the gums — commonly causing dribbling, frothing and foaming at the mouth, vomiting and stomach pain. Thankfully, although the signs can look dramatic, ingestion is unlikely to cause significant problems, but your pet may require supportive treatment.
Oaks and acorns
Exposure to acorns in dogs is common in the autumn and winter. The toxic ingredient is thought to be tannic acid, which can cause damage to the liver and kidneys. Signs include vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and lethargy. Ingested acorns can also cause an intestinal blockage.
Fallen leaves
Piles of leaves can develop bacteria and mould. If your dog ingests these it can lead to gastrointestinal upsets.
Anti-freeze
The worst of all the chemical spills is anti-freeze (containing ethylene glycol), which can leak from a car’s radiator. Ethylene glycol ingestion is very dangerous. It is sweet tasting and very palatable and even a small quantity can cause serious kidney damage and be fatal. The first signs of intoxication can be that your pet appears ‘drunk’. If you know your pet has ingested ethylene glycol or you have any concerns, contact your vet without delay. The prognosis becomes less good the longer the delay between ingestion of the antifreeze and initiation of treatment.
Chocolate
Chocolate sales rise around Halloween but remember it contains a stimulant called theobromine that’s poisonous to dogs. The amount of theobromine differs depending on the type of chocolate — dark chocolate has the most in it. Theobromine mainly affects the heart, central nervous system and kidneys. Signs will occur from 4-24 hours following ingestion and you may see vomiting, diarrhoea, restlessness, hyperactivity, rapid breathing, muscle tension, incoordination, increased heart rate and seizures.
Other dangers
Dark night/ mornings
Always wear reflective clothing to make yourself visible when walking near roads in the dark. And don’t forget your pets! Fit your dog and cat with a reflective or LED collar – but make sure only a quick release collar is used for a cat.
Fleas
Turning up your heating in your home as the temperature drops in autumn can provide the perfect temperature for fleas. It’s important to treat your pet for fleas all year round. Please contact us if you wish to discuss the various flea treatments available.
Fireworks
The firework season seems to be getting longer each year and can be a stressful time for all pets. Read our article on how you can make fireworks less frightening for your pet: https://www.oakhill-vets.com/fireworks-pets/
HELPING OUR OLDER PETS STAY HAPPY AND HEALTHY THIS AUTUMN
As the days get shorter and temperatures begin to fall, our older pets may need a little extra care to stay comfortable. Colder weather can be particularly challenging for senior dogs and cats, especially those with stiff joints, reduced mobility or other age-related health concerns. Thankfully, a few simple adjustments can help them enjoy the changing seasons.
KEEP THEM WARM AND COSY
Older pets can find it harder to regulate their body temperature, so make sure they have a warm, draught-free place to rest. A comfortable bed away from cold floors and chilly doorways can make a big difference. Cats may appreciate extra cosy sleeping spots around the house, while dogs with thinner coats may benefit from a well-fitting coat when heading outdoors in colder weather.
KEEP THEM MOVING
When the weather turns wet and chilly, it’s tempting to cut walks short or spend more time indoors. However, regular, gentle exercise remains important for maintaining muscle strength, joint mobility and a healthy weight.
For older dogs, shorter, more frequent walks may be more comfortable than one long outing. Allow time to warm up before increasing the pace and avoid pushing them if they’re showing signs of discomfort. For cats, gentle play sessions indoors can help keep them active when they’re less inclined to venture outside.
LOOK OUT FOR CHANGES IN MOBILITY
Does your pet take longer to get up after a nap, hesitate before climbing stairs or seem reluctant to jump onto their favourite chair? These changes are sometimes dismissed as a normal part of ageing, but they can be signs of joint pain or arthritis.
If you notice changes in how your pet moves, behaves or enjoys their usual activities, arrange a veterinary check. There are several ways we can help manage discomfort and support mobility, helping older pets maintain a good quality of life.
KEEP AN EYE ON THEIR WEIGHT
Pets may become less active during the colder months, which can make it easier for extra pounds to creep on. Excess weight places additional strain on joints and can contribute to other health problems.
Try to keep treats in moderation, measure meals carefully and monitor your pet’s weight regularly. If you’re unsure how much your pet should be eating, our team can offer tailored advice to help keep them in good condition.
DON’T OVERLOOK THEIR REGULAR HEALTH CHECKS
As pets get older, regular veterinary checks become increasingly valuable. Some age-related conditions develop gradually, with subtle signs that can be difficult to spot at home. Changes in thirst, appetite, toileting habits or energy levels can all warrant further investigation.
At Oakhill Vets, we offer a free Senior Pet Check with a nurse for all dogs aged 8 or over and cats age 10 or over. These appointments are also a great opportunity to discuss mobility, nutrition, dental health and any changes you’ve noticed.
Growing older doesn’t mean your pet has to miss out on life’s little pleasures. With a warm bed, appropriate exercise, a balanced diet and regular veterinary care, you can help your four-legged friend stay comfortable throughout the colder months.
If you’ve noticed any changes in your pet as the weather turns or simply want some advice on caring for them as they age, the Oakhill Vets team is here to help.