Don’t drag frightened pets out of hiding: Experts issue warning as storms batter Britain
Pet owners are being urged to let frightened animals hide and offer reassurance as back-to-back storms bring dangerous winds and heavy rain to Britain.
Experts say forcing pets out of their hiding places or insisting on cuddles could add to their distress, while familiar bedding, quiet retreats and a calm presence can help them feel secure.
The warning comes as Storm Austen moves through the UK on Friday, October 23, with Storm Boelo set to bring further severe weather over the weekend.
The Met Office has issued an amber wind warning for much of Scotland and parts of Northern Ireland and northern England, with widespread gusts of 60 to 70mph forecast and the potential for 80mph in exposed coastal locations.
The RSPCA is urging owners to prepare for flooding, secure outdoor animal accommodation and keep pets inside during the strongest winds.
But animal experts say protecting pets’ emotional wellbeing is also essential.
Andrew Hale, emotional wellbeing expert at Pet Remedy, said: “Storms can be frightening for pets, who don’t understand why their familiar world has suddenly become full of loud bangs, flashes and unfamiliar sounds. The most helpful thing we can do is give them safety, choice and reassurance.
“Create a cosy retreat away from windows, close the curtains and use familiar background sounds to soften the noise outside. Let your pet choose where they feel safest. Don’t pull them out of a hiding place or insist on cuddles, but if they come to you for comfort, offer it. You won’t reinforce their fear by being kind.”
Andrew advises keeping dogs’ toilet breaks short and supervised when conditions are safe, bringing cats indoors before the weather worsens and checking smaller animals’ accommodation is secure, dry and protected.
He added: “Try to stay calm and keep routines familiar, without putting pressure on your pet to behave normally.”
Katie Gwilt, holistic cat expert and owner of The Kat Lady, said even apparently confident cats could struggle with the sudden disruption and that the wooshing sound of the wind can alarm them
She said: “Cats feel more secure when they have control over their surroundings, and a storm can suddenly take that away. Even a normally confident cat may hide, become restless or want to stay unusually close to you.
“Bring cats indoors before the storm arrives and make sure they can reach their litter trays, water and favourite resting places without venturing near noisy windows or doors. Offer a choice of hiding spots, such as a cardboard box on its side with familiar bedding inside, and let them decide where to settle.”
Katie warned owners against repeatedly disturbing cats to check on them.
She said: “Resist the urge to keep checking on them by lifting blankets or reaching into their hiding place. Being nearby and available can be more reassuring than constant attention. If they want company, let them approach on their own terms.
“Don’t punish toileting accidents or expect them to play and interact as usual. Give them time to feel comfortable again, even after the storm has passed.”
The RSPCA also urged owners in areas at risk of flooding to act early and have a plan for moving their animals to safety.
Dr Samantha Gaines, the charity’s pet expert, said: “Floodwater can rise very quickly so if there is a flood warning in your area then act early - make sure you have a plan so that you know how to get your animals out of danger if the worst was to happen and you found yourself caught up in rising water.”
Owners should check fences and gates for storm damage before letting pets outside, ensure microchip details are up to date and keep food, bedding and important documents somewhere dry.
Rabbits, guinea pigs and birds should be brought indoors where possible, while horses and livestock need adequate shelter and supplies of food and water.
The charity warned people against entering dangerous floodwater to rescue animals themselves.
Dr Gaines said: “Don’t put your own life or another’s life in danger to attempt an animal rescue and instead call us and other response agencies for help in an emergency.”
Further advice is available at https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/floods.
