đž Autumn is here, and so is the cooler weather! Nowâs the perfect time to ensure your pets are prepped for the seasonal shift. Whether you’ve got a curious guinea pig or a cheeky hamster, Dr Suzanne Moyes, a vet from Burgess Pet Care, has shared some top tips to keep your furry friends snug and happy.
1. **Inspect Their Home:** Before that first autumn storm rolls through, give your pet’s home a once-over. Check for leaks, weak spots or anything that might let the chill in. A quick inspection can spare your pet a lot of stressâand you a winter full of vet visits.
2. **Know When to Bring Them In:** Not all animals are built for the outdoors year-round. If you wouldnât sit outside with just a jumper, your small pets shouldnât either! Rabbits and guinea pigs might be fine with the right setup, but younger, elderly, or sick pets should come inside when nights dip below 10°C.
3. **Create a Cosy Indoor Space:** Keep your indoor pets comfortable with the right temperature. Rabbits and guinea pigs like it around 15-20°C, while hamsters enjoy it a tad warmer at 20-24°C. Too cold, and hamsters might slip into a dangerous hibernation-like state!
4. **Weatherproof Their Outdoor Home:** If your furry pals stay outside, make sure their homes are protected from wind and rain. Elevate enclosures from damp ground and consider using tarpaulins or windbreaks for extra protection during a storm.
5. **Smart Insulation:** Donât just focus on the outsideâinsulate interiors with straw or pet-safe bedding. Itâs an added layer of warmth and security.
6. **Choose the Right Hay:** Hay serves both as food and insulation! Timothy hay is ideal for rabbits and guinea pigs, while soft hay like orchard grass is perfect for hamsters. Just ensure itâs dry and dust-free to keep diseases at bay.
Remember, giving your pets a cosy and secure environment this autumn can make all the difference. Keep them comfy, and they’ll love you for it! đđ°â¤ď¸
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