Autumn Pet Safety: Toxins, Mushrooms And Seasonal Hazards

Autumn brings cooler walks, colourful leaves and plenty of opportunities for pets to explore, but it also introduces seasonal hazards that can affect their health. Knowing what to look out for, preventing your pet from eating unfamiliar plants or fungi, and knowing when to contact us can help keep them safe.

Watch Out For Mushrooms And Toadstools

Damp autumn weather creates ideal conditions for mushrooms and fungi to appear in gardens, parks, woodland and other areas where pets may explore. While some mushrooms are harmless, others can cause serious illness, and identifying different varieties can be difficult.

For this reason, it is safest to prevent your pet from eating any wild mushroom or toadstool they find. Keep dogs on a lead where necessary and supervise curious pets in areas where fungi are growing. If you see your pet eat a mushroom, contact us promptly rather than waiting for symptoms to develop. Some types can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, while others can result in more serious problems such as fits, abnormal heart rhythms or organ damage.

Acorns, Conkers And Fallen Leaves

Autumn walks often mean piles of fallen leaves, acorns and conkers. Although these may look like harmless things for your dog to investigate, swallowing them can cause problems.

Acorns can cause illness if eaten, while conkers may cause stomach upsets and, if swallowed, can potentially cause a blockage in the gut. Fallen leaves can also hide other hazards, including fungi or discarded food. Keep an eye on your pet during walks, particularly if they are prone to scavenging, and discourage them from picking things up.

Be Careful With Autumn Plants

Several plants that are commonly found in gardens, parks and countryside areas can be harmful to pets. Autumn crocus, yew, oak and horse chestnut are among the seasonal plants and trees that can present risks. Some autumn berries can also be tempting to curious pets.

Before introducing new plants into your garden, check that they are pet-safe. When walking, keep pets away from unfamiliar plants and prevent them from chewing leaves, berries, bulbs or other plant material. If you think your pet has eaten a potentially poisonous plant, contact us straight away, even if they appear completely well.

Take Extra Care Around Antifreeze

As temperatures begin to fall, antifreeze and other products containing ethylene glycol become an important concern. Antifreeze can be extremely toxic to dogs and cats, and even a small amount can cause severe kidney damage. Spilt liquid can also be licked from paws after walking near a vehicle.

Store antifreeze and similar products securely, clean up spills immediately and keep pets away from areas where a spill may have occurred. If you suspect your pet has licked or swallowed antifreeze, contact us immediately. Do not wait for signs of poisoning to appear, as early treatment is crucial.

Remember Other Seasonal Toxins

Autumn can also bring an increased use of garden products, rodenticides and other chemicals. Rodent poisons can be highly toxic to pets, and poisoning may occur if a pet eats bait directly or, in some circumstances, consumes a poisoned rodent.

Keep all chemicals, pest control products and medicines securely out of reach. If you think your pet has eaten something potentially harmful, remove them from the area and contact us immediately. If possible, keep the packaging or take a photograph of the product so we can identify what your pet may have been exposed to.

What To Do If Your Pet Eats Something Harmful

If you see your pet eat something potentially toxic, do not wait for symptoms before seeking advice. Some poisons can take time to cause noticeable signs, while early treatment can make a significant difference.

Do not try to make your pet sick unless we specifically tell you to do so, as this can sometimes cause further harm. Tell us what your pet has eaten, approximately how much, when it happened and your pet's size and age. If you have the substance or its packaging available, bring it with you if we advise that your pet needs to be seen.

Enjoy A Safe Autumn Together

There is no need to avoid autumn adventures with your pet. A little extra awareness can help you enjoy the season safely. Supervise your pet outdoors, keep potentially dangerous substances securely stored and discourage scavenging wherever possible.

If you are concerned that your pet has eaten a mushroom, plant, acorn, conker, chemical or another potentially harmful substance, contact us as soon as possible. We would always rather you ask for advice early than wait and see whether your pet develops symptoms.