RSPCA warning for anyone who owns garden shed or greenhouse

RSPCA warning for anyone who owns garden shed or greenhouse The animal welfare charity has urged homeowners to check their sheds Homeowners across the UK are being urged to exercise caution whenever they use a garden shed, greenhouse, or summerhouse. According to the RSPCA, gardeners need to check their sheds in order to help keep animals safe. The animal welfare charity explained that cats often seek shelter in greenhouses and summerhouses to find a cosy spot. However, they can get trapped and end up in distress in the hot weather. As such, people are being asked to always check their outhouses before closing the door. Issuing advice on the RSPCA website, the charity said: "Check sheds, greenhouses and summerhouses before closing them up. Cats can find their way into warm areas if they're looking for a cosy spot, but could get too hot or dehydrated if they get trapped. "Never leave animals in hot cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans, even if it's just for a short while. Temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C (117°F) in these environments, which can be fatal." The RSPCA also shares advice for cat owners, including tips on caring for pets during the summer months. The guidance says: "Where safe, keep windows and doors ajar to allow a breeze through the house. If your cat lives indoors full-time, consider different options such as windows with locking mechanisms, which allow air into the house while also keeping your cat indoors." The charity adds: "Ensure your cat always has access to shade and fresh drinking water to help keep them cool. Put ice cubes into your cat's water bowl or make some tasty ice cube treats." The good news for cat owners is that their pets are unlikely to develop heatstroke through exercise. However, charity PDSA says that cats can develop heatstroke when they are accidentally shut in warm places. Symptoms of heatstroke in cats include confusion, drooling, seizures, vomiting, panting, and low energy. Always speak to a vet if you are concerned about your pet's health. The guidance is especially important this week, with a red warning and an amber warning for extreme heat in place across much of the UK. The Met Office website explains: "The Met Office Extreme Heat warning is now active for much of southern and central England and Wales, with Amber warnings now also extending into Friday and Saturday for some. "The Red warning came into force at 0900 on Wednesday morning and will now last through to late on Thursday night. This is embedded within a wider Amber warning area, which covers much of England and Wales through Wednesday and Thursday."