Home / Weather / Antifreeze Danger: Pets at Risk This Winter
Antifreeze Danger: Pets at Risk This Winter
21 Nov
Summary
- Antifreeze is highly toxic and can kill pets during cold weather.
- Drivers are using antifreeze to protect car engines from freezing.
- Weather warnings issued as snow and ice cause UK travel chaos.

As temperatures plummet across the UK, drivers are increasingly relying on antifreeze to safeguard their car engines against the harsh winter conditions. This essential automotive fluid, however, carries a significant and often overlooked danger. Veterinary charity PDSA has issued a stark warning about its extreme toxicity, highlighting the lethal risk it poses to domestic animals like dogs and cats.
The current cold snap has brought snow, ice, and frost to various parts of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Weather experts at the Met Office have issued numerous warnings, advising residents in areas like North Yorkshire to stay indoors due to hazardous travel conditions caused by heavy snow.
For those who must travel, such as essential workers, antifreeze is a critical component for vehicle maintenance. Nevertheless, the potent toxicity means that any contact can be fatal for pets. This situation underscores the need for heightened awareness among pet owners during winter months.




