The capital is bracing for 33C temperatures this weekend as the first heatwave of 2025 is about to sweep across the country.
As well as staying safe yourself, have a care for our furry friends this weekend, who can’t take off their layers to cool down.
Pet-safe sun cream, fresh water, damp towels and homemade cat-friendly ice lollies are all your friends to keep your animals safe in the heat.
With temperatures set to hit as high as 33C this week, here is a look at what you can do to help your pets cope with the hot weather.
Where should pets never be left on a hot day?
The RSPCA says animals should never be left in cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day, even for a short while.
Even if it’s only as high as 22C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47C in these environments, so imagine how hot they would get with London set to see highs of 30C.
How can I make my pets feel more comfortable?
The RSPCA says you can use pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet’s skin, make sure they have shade, ensure they have constant access to fresh water, put ice cubes in their water bowl and give them damp towels to lie on.
Should I walk my dog in hot weather?
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home advises against walking your dog in hot weather as dogs are less able to cope than humans in the heat.
They suggest a gentle walk very early or late in the evening, when the temperature has significantly reduced.
Try and stick to shady areas and avoid walking dogs on hot tarmac, with earthy paths or grass preferred for the pads of their feet.
It can be painful for your pet to walk on surfaces that heat up in the sun, and they can even sustain burns in extreme heat.
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home say if it feels too hot for you to touch, then chances are your pet is thinking the same.
If it’s unavoidable, consider getting boots for your pet to wear to protect their pads.
Is there anything I should look out for in my dog?
Yes. You should look out for signs of heatstroke as dogs can suffer from it when they overheat.
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home says it is important to know how to avoid it and be aware of the signs as it requires urgent veterinary treatment.
Signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, lethargy, confusion or loss of coordination, drooling or foaming at the mouth, vomiting or diarrhoea, shaking or weakness, and seizures.
Is there anything my dog or cat can eat to cool down?
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home recommend trying frozen pet-friendly recipes like ice lollies.
They say that pet ice lollies are not only a delicious way to help your pet in the heat but a nutritious snack too.
As a treat for your cat, the animal rescue centre suggests freezing the water from a can of tuna along with a few tuna flakes for them to lick.
