Autumn Dangers for Pets: What Every Owner & Pro Should Know

Autumn can be a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your pet, with crisp walks, colourful leaves, and cosy evenings. It is by far my FAVOURITE season! But the change in weather also brings hidden risks for dogs and cats. Knowing what to look out for, and how to act quickly if something goes wrong, is an important part of responsible pet care.

Common Autumn Hazards for Pets

One of the biggest dangers at this time of year is conkers. While they may look harmless, conkers can cause serious stomach upsets if eaten, and can even lead to blockages. Acorns are another risk – they contain tannins which are toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain. Risk of blockages are there too.

Mushrooms and fungi also thrive in damp autumn weather. While some species are harmless, others can be poisonous to pets, and it’s often impossible to tell them apart. Keeping your pet away from wild mushrooms is the safest option.

Antifreeze is another autumn hazard, particularly for roaming outdoor cats. Even a small amount of antifreeze can be deadly if ingested, so be mindful of leaks from cars and keep bottles securely stored.

Autumn Berries to Watch Out For

Many hedgerows and gardens are full of berries in autumn, and while they look harmless, some can be dangerous to dogs and cats.

• Yew berries – The bright red flesh hides highly toxic seeds. Even a small amount can be fatal.

• Holly berries – Can cause stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhoea if eaten.

• Mistletoe berries – Very poisonous to pets, leading to drooling, abdominal pain, and in severe cases, seizures.

• Ivy berries – Appear in late autumn and can cause tummy upsets and lethargy.

• Rowan (mountain ash) berries – May cause vomiting and diarrhoea if eaten in large amounts.

• Elderberries (raw) – Contain toxins that can upset pets’ stomachs.

  
  

If you grow any of these plants at home, it’s best to keep pets away from them, especially when berries are falling to the ground. On walks, a good “leave it” cue is invaluable for preventing dogs from picking up berries and other harmful items. In some cases, you may need to have the dog wear a muzzle if they cannot resist temptation!

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How to Prevent Problems

Prevention is always better than cure. You hear me say it over and over! When out walking your dog, keep an eye on what they are sniffing or picking up, and encourage them to avoid chewing or eating things they find outdoors. If you have a garden with oak trees, make sure acorns are cleared regularly. For cats, check driveways and garages for any spills of antifreeze and clean them immediately.

Providing enrichment at home, such as puzzle feeders and toys, can also help reduce the temptation for pets to scavenge when outside. Regular training and a strong recall and leave it command can be invaluable in keeping your dog safe during walks.

What to Do if Something Goes Wrong

If you suspect your dog or cat has eaten something toxic, or if they suddenly show signs of being unwell such as vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, or collapse, contact your vet immediately. Time is critical when it comes to poisoning or blockages, and quick action can save lives.

You can also call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 for 24-hour advice on what to do next. They can guide you on whether urgent veterinary treatment is needed.

Avoid trying home remedies or waiting to see if your pet improves, as this can delay essential treatment. Always seek professional advice as soon as possible.

Supporting Your Pet’s Wellbeing

At Bluebell Pet Care, we believe that awareness and education are key to keeping pets safe and healthy. Our courses are designed to give you practical knowledge, from recognising early warning signs to learning how to respond in an emergency.

To find out more about keeping your pet safe this autumn, visit bluebellpetcare.com and explore our courses. We’d also love to hear your experiences – have you had to deal with an autumn hazard before? Share your story with us to help raise awareness and support other pet owners.