The impact of climate change on pets

Fish are “ectotherms” – that is, they use external sources of heat to regulate their body temperature. So pet fish are vulnerable to changes in the water temperature of your home aquarium, which may occur during a heatwave. Extreme water temperatures can cause physical harm to fish. For example, it can increase a fish’s metabolic rate meaning it needs more oxygen to breathe . It can also cause changes such as slowed growth and reduced feeding.



Heat stress can change the physiology of birds. For example, research into a wild population of small Australian robins showed during a heatwave, the birds lost body mass and abandoned their nests, and some died. Heat stress can also cause abnormal behavior in pet birds such as feather picking, when one bird repeatedly pecks at the feathers of another.

In hot weather, regularly check your bird’s cage to make sure it’s clean and stocked with food and water. If the bird is in an outdoor cage or aviary, ensure it is shaded. And a shallow bird bath will help your feathered friend cool off.



Dogs and cats can suffer on hot days. That’s especially true if they are older or overweight, have thick coats and have short snouts/flat faces Heat stress can cause canine hyperthermia, which means the dog’s body temperature becomes dangerously hot. Watch for early warning signs of heat stress such as excessive panting and erratic movements. These symptoms can quickly escalate, leading to heat stroke and possible death.



Like other animals, cats can overheat in hot weather. Symptoms include panting heavily, drooling and a rapid pulse. Like with other animals, if you suspect your cat is suffering from heatstroke, call a vet immediately. Climate change and associated heat and floods is likely to aid the spread of parasites and illness including tick-borne diseases, flea infestations and heartworm. This puts both cats and dogs at risk. In hot weather, the advice for cat owners is similar to that of dog owners: ensure your cat has plenty of shade and water, and put pet sunscreen on their ear tips and noses, especially if the cat is white .

• Ensure pets have access to cool, shaded areas and fresh water at all times.
• Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours.
• Use cooling products like pet mats and breathable clothing from Ruse to help regulate body temperature.
• Create an emergency plan that includes your pets, complete with supplies and a safe evacuation route.
• Keep pet identification tags updated and consider microchipping for easy identification.
• Regularly use veterinarian-recommended parasite preventatives.
• Inspect pets for ticks and fleas after outdoor activities.
• Keep your garden and outdoor spaces well-maintained to reduce exposure.

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Frequently asked question(FAQs)

1. Which pets are most risk from extreme heat?
   
   Flat faced breeds lie bulldogs and pups elderly pets, overweight animals, Pet with heart or lung issues and pets with thick fur are most at risk.
2. How does climate change increase disease risk in pets?
   
   Warmer climate help parasites lie ticks and mosquitoes survive longer increasing the spread of disease such as Lyme disease and heartworm.
3. Does air pollution linked to climate change affect pets?
   
   Yes, poor air quality can worsen asthma, allergies and respiratory conditions in pets particularly in birds and animals with sensitive lungs.
4. How can climate friendly choices help protect pets?
   
   Using eco-friendly pets products reducing waste, choosing sustainable pet food and supporting environmental protection help reduce climate risk.