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UK weather: RSPCA warns cats and dogs could be at risk when Atlantic storm Ruth hits Britain
Hold on to your cats: RSPCA warns that pets could be blown away in wild weather
(about 13 hours later)
The RSPCA has warned pet owners to take extra care of their animals in heavy rain and high winds.
It could literally start raining cats and dogs as high winds and storms threaten to blow pets away.
A spokesperson from the animal charity said that there have been a number of reports of cats being taken up in strong winds in some parts of the country, while dogs have been swept away in flood waters during walks.
The RSPCA has issued warnings following reports of strong gusts in parts of the country lifting cats into the air.
RSPCA companion animal scientist Alice Potter said: “Extreme weather like we’ve been seeing can spell trouble for animals as well as humans. We urge pet owners to keep an eye on the weather forecast in their area and plan ahead to make sure their animals are safe."
Winds were expected to reach 80mph in the south of England and Wales in storm Ruth on Saturday, strong enough to bring down trees and hurl unsecured items around.
The organisation recommends that cats should be kept indoors in extreme winds, and reminded their owners to provide everything they will need, including places to hide and a litter tray if they don't normally have one.
Alice Potter, an animal scientist with the charity, said: “Extreme weather like we’ve been seeing can spell trouble for animals as well as humans.
Dog walks can be made safer by planning two or three short stints at a time, as well as making sure pets are accompanied at all times.
“It might be necessary to keep cats inside if the winds become very extreme.”
Ms Potter added: “Most of it is common sense – but it is very easy to forget the obvious, especially since this weather has been going on so long we have become almost too used to it.“We can all take simple steps to help animals at this time however our inspectors are on-call around the clock so they can help if the worst should happen,” she added.
She urged people to ensure their pets have adequate shelter in the dangerous conditions.
The RSPCA's recommendations come as Atlantic storm Ruth is set to hit Britain on the weekend of the 8 February, brining 80mph winds and 35ft high waves.
Dogs are also at risk of being swept away by flood water during walks, she said, and owners should avoid dangerous conditions.
The south of England is currently covered by a Met office weather warning for Friday and Saturday, with the whole of the UK likely to be "engulfed" by heavy rain on Friday night.
Eyewitnesses claimed cats were lifted into the air like “paper bags” when a “mini-tornado” hit Chobham in Surrey last month.
Months of terrible weather have made a group of penguins at Scarborough Sea Life Sanctuary so grumpy that they are being given antidepressants.
