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UK Heatwave Threatens Rabbits & Small Animals
26 Jun
Summary
- Small animals like rabbits are highly susceptible to heat stress.
- Record-breaking temperatures reached 36.7°C in the UK recently.
- Owners should provide extra water and shade for pets.
Owners of small animals, including rabbits, are being alerted by the RSPCA to the dangers posed by the ongoing British heatwave. With temperatures reaching record levels, up to 36.7°C, these pets are particularly vulnerable to heat stress.
The animal welfare charity emphasizes the importance of proactive care during warm spells. Simple steps like ensuring constant access to fresh water and maintaining shaded areas within pet enclosures can be vital for their well-being.
In response to the charity's advice, pet owners have shared effective cooling strategies. These include providing ice bottles for rabbits to rest on and bringing pets inside during the hottest parts of the day, with curtains closed.
Further recommendations from the RSPCA highlight keeping all pet enclosures, cages, and runs out of direct sunlight. It is also crucial to avoid housing pets in buildings like greenhouses, which can rapidly become dangerously hot.
