When the temperature spikes, pets feel it just as much as we do. The difference is they can’t tell us when they’re struggling, and they can’t always remove themselves from a situation that’s becoming dangerous. That makes it our job to stay one step ahead.

Here’s what to know when the heat hits.

Keep the house cool, and water topped up

Good ventilation makes a big difference. Open windows on the shaded side of the house and draw curtains or blinds in rooms that catch direct sun. A fan positioned near where your pet usually lies is helpful, as long as they can move away from it if they want to.

Fresh, cool water should be available at all times. Put out multiple bowls, check them regularly and add ice cubes to help keep the temperature down. Cats in particular will often refuse to drink from a spot they’re not comfortable with, so placement matters more than you might think.

Give them ways to cool down

For dogs, a paddling pool in a shaded corner of the garden can work really well. Not every dog will use one, but many will wade in once they realise how good it feels. A damp towel to lie on is a simple alternative. Just avoid placing a wet towel over your dog, as it can trap heat rather than release it.

Frozen treats are easy to make and genuinely effective. A Kong stuffed with wet food or peanut butter and left in the freezer overnight gives them something to work at, which also brings their temperature down. Frozen fruit works well for dogs, too, just avoid grapes and raisins, which are toxic.

Rethink walks when it’s hot

Hot pavements can cause serious burns to paw pads, even on days that don’t feel extreme to us. The test is straightforward: press the back of your hand flat on the pavement. If you can’t hold it there for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.

Most vets recommend limiting or avoiding walks when temperatures reach 20°C and above, particularly for flat-faced breeds, older dogs, puppies and those who are overweight. If you do go out, aim for early morning or evening when both the air and the ground have had time to cool. Avoid the peak hours between around 11am and 3pm.

Cats will mostly manage this themselves, but if yours goes outdoors, make sure there’s shade available and a way back inside during the hottest part of the day.

Know the signs of heatstroke

Heatstroke can develop quickly and is a veterinary emergency. In dogs, watch for heavy or laboured panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, vomiting, uncoordinated movement or collapse. Gums that look very red or darker than usual are also a warning sign.

If you think your dog is overheating, move them somewhere cool and shaded straightaway. Wet their coat with cool tap water. Not cold water and not ice, as this can cause blood vessels to constrict and actually slow the cooling process. Let them drink a small amount of water if they want it, then get to a vet as quickly as you can. Call ahead so they’re ready for you.

Cats can suffer heatstroke, too, though it’s less common. Open-mouthed breathing, drooling and lethargy are unusual signs in cats and should be taken seriously.

When to call your vet

Do not wait to see if things improve if your pet shows any of the following:

• Collapse or inability to stand
• Uncoordinated or wobbly movement
• Vomiting or diarrhoea alongside the heat
• Gums that look pale, very red or bluish
• Seizures

Heatstroke can be fatal if not treated quickly. When in doubt, call your vet.

If your pet has suddenly started eating more grass lately, you are definitely not alone. Spring and early summer are when many owners notice the behaviour more often, especially in dogs. But why do they do it, and when should you actually worry?

Here is what could be behind the sudden salad obsession.

Sometimes, pets just like it

The simplest explanation is often the correct one. Many dogs genuinely enjoy chewing grass. The texture, smell and taste can all be interesting to them, especially after spending more time outdoors in spring.

Cats may also nibble grass or plants out of curiosity, boredom or instinct.

It can help with digestion

Some pets eat grass when they have mild stomach discomfort. Grass may help stimulate digestion or encourage vomiting if something feels off.

Occasional grass eating followed by normal behaviour is usually nothing to panic about. But if it becomes frequent, excessive or paired with vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy, it is worth checking with your vet.

Spring means more outdoor time

As the weather improves, pets naturally spend more time outside exploring gardens, parks and fields. More outdoor access simply means more opportunities to chew grass, dig in flower beds and investigate absolutely everything.

This is also why spring is an important time to stay on top of parasite protection. More outdoor activity increases exposure to fleas, ticks and worms.

Watch out for treated grass

Not all grass is pet-safe. Lawns treated with fertilisers, weed killers or pesticides can be harmful if ingested.

Try to stop pets grazing on recently treated grass and always follow product guidance carefully if using garden treatments at home.

Cats and houseplants

Cats that chew grass may also turn their attention to houseplants. Unfortunately, some common indoor plants can be toxic to pets.

If your cat suddenly becomes very interested in chewing greenery, it is worth checking that your plants are safe and moving any risky ones out of reach.

When to pay closer attention

Grass eating is usually harmless, but there are a few signs that suggest it might be linked to something more serious:

• Frequent vomiting
• Sudden increase in appetite or thirst
• Diarrhoea
• Lethargy
• Weight loss
• Excessive licking or chewing

These can sometimes point to digestive issues, irritation or parasites.

A little grass is usually normal

For most pets, occasional grass eating is just another weird little habit that comes with warmer weather and more time outdoors.

Keeping gardens safe, staying up to date with parasite treatments and keeping an eye on any sudden behaviour changes will help make sure your pet enjoys spring safely.

As the weather improves and the days get longer, pets naturally spend more time outside. Gardens quickly become their favourite place to explore, play and relax.

But while it might feel like a safe space, there are a few seasonal risks that are easy to overlook.

Here’s what to check as spring gets underway.

Long grass and shady spots

Ticks thrive in long grass, overgrown areas and damp, shaded spots. If your garden has any of these, it can become an ideal place for them to wait for a passing pet.

Keeping the lawn trimmed and clearing away overgrown areas can help reduce the risk.

Standing water

Puddles, water features or areas where water collects can attract insects and allow bacteria to build up. Pets that drink from or paddle through standing water may be exposed to things that upset their stomach or irritate their skin.

Refreshing water bowls regularly and keeping outdoor areas tidy helps minimise this.

Garden products and treatments

Spring often means fertilisers, weed killers and other garden treatments. These can be harmful if pets walk through them or ingest treated grass or soil.

Always check the label, follow the instructions carefully and keep pets off treated areas until it is safe to do so.

Plants and flowers

Some common garden plants can be toxic to pets if eaten. As new plants start to grow, it is worth checking what is in your garden and making sure it is safe.

Even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if eaten in large amounts, especially for curious pets.

Wildlife and unwanted visitors

Spring brings more wildlife into gardens, from birds to rodents. While it can be interesting to watch, it also increases the chance of pets picking up parasites or interacting with something they should not.

Keeping an eye on what your pet is sniffing, chasing or bringing back indoors is always a good idea.

What comes back inside

More time outdoors usually means more mud, dirt and debris being brought back into the house. Along with that can come fleas or ticks that are not immediately visible.

Rinsing muddy paws and doing quick checks after garden time can help keep both your pet and your home clean.

A quick garden check goes a long way

Your garden should be a safe place for your pet to enjoy. A few simple checks and small changes can make a big difference as spring gets into full swing.

Staying one step ahead now means fewer problems later, and more time for your pet to enjoy everything the season has to offer.

Spring is finally on the way. Longer days, more walks, open windows, muddy paws and a lot more time spent outside. After a long winter indoors, this is usually when pets become more active again, and when a few seasonal risks start creeping back in too.

So before spring properly gets going, here’s a quick checklist to make sure your pet is ready for the season ahead.

1. Check parasite protection is up to date

Spring is when fleas and ticks start becoming more active again. Warmer temperatures, longer grass, more wildlife and more time outdoors all increase the risk of your pet picking up parasites.

Even if you kept up treatments over winter, now is a good time to double check everything is up to date and on schedule. Prevention is always easier than dealing with an infestation later.

2. Time for a grooming reset

Many pets start shedding their winter coats as the weather warms up. You might notice more fur on the sofa, your clothes and somehow in your morning coffee.

Regular brushing helps remove loose fur, keeps the coat healthy and gives you a chance to check for any lumps, bumps, ticks or skin irritation. It also helps reduce matting, especially for longer haired breeds.

3. Watch out for muddy paws and sore pads

Spring walks often mean mud, puddles and softer ground. While most dogs love this, muddy paws can lead to irritated skin or sore paw pads if they are constantly wet or dirty.

Rinse paws after very muddy walks and dry them properly, especially between the toes. This can help prevent irritation and infections.

4. More time outdoors means more risks

As the weather improves, pets tend to spend more time outside in gardens, parks and fields. This also means more contact with other animals, wildlife and shared outdoor spaces, which can increase the risk of worms, fleas and ticks.

If you have a garden, it is also worth checking for any new plants, fertilisers or garden products that could be harmful to pets.

5. Ease back into exercise

If winter meant shorter walks and more sofa time, do not suddenly jump into very long walks or intense exercise. Build activity levels back up gradually to avoid strains or injuries, especially for older dogs.

Cats may also become more active again in spring, spending more time outdoors or exploring, so make sure they are up to date with parasite protection too.

A quick spring checklist

Before spring fully arrives, it is worth asking yourself:

• Is parasite protection up to date?
• Does my pet need brushing or grooming?
• Are they ready for more exercise again?
• Is the garden safe and secure?
• Do I have everything I need for the next few months?

A few small checks now can make spring much easier, healthier and more enjoyable for both you and your pet.

If your pet has been scratching more than usual lately, you’re not imagining it. Late winter is a common time for itchy behaviour to ramp up, and while dry skin can definitely play a part, it’s not always the full story.

Here’s what could be behind the extra scratching, licking and nibbling, and how to tell when it’s time to look a little closer.

Dry winter air

Cold weather and central heating can dry out your pet’s skin, just like it does to ours. This often shows up as mild itchiness, flaky skin or extra grooming, especially around the legs, belly and sides.

For many pets, this kind of dryness is temporary and improves with time, good nutrition and regular grooming.

Less grooming means more irritation

During winter, coats tend to get thicker and grooming routines often slip. Matted fur, trapped dirt and loose hair can all irritate the skin and make itching worse.

Regular brushing helps improve airflow to the skin and lets you spot any changes early, whether that’s redness, scabs or something more concerning.

Fleas love cosy homes

It’s easy to assume fleas disappear in winter, but they don’t. Central heating creates the perfect environment for fleas to survive and reproduce indoors. Even pets that spend most of their time inside can still be at risk.

If your pet is scratching intensely, biting at their skin or focusing on one area, fleas could be the cause even if you can’t see them straight away.

Ticks do not fully disappear either

Ticks are less active in very cold weather, but during mild winter spells they can still be present, especially in grassy, wooded or rural areas. Dogs that enjoy muddy walks and cats that roam outdoors can still pick them up.

Checking your pet after walks or outdoor time is a good habit to keep year round.

When itching is a sign to act

Occasional scratching is normal. Constant itching is not. You should look closer if you notice:

• Persistent scratching, chewing or licking
• Hair loss or thinning patches
• Red, sore or broken skin
• Changes in behaviour or restlessness

These signs can point to parasites, allergies or skin infections, all of which benefit from early treatment.

Staying one step ahead

The best way to reduce parasite related itching is to stay consistent with flea, tick and worm treatments throughout the year. Skipping doses in winter can give parasites the chance to take hold, leading to bigger problems later on.

Regular grooming, clean bedding and keeping your pet’s routine steady all help too.

The bottom line

Winter dryness can make pets itchy, but it is not the only cause. If the scratching feels excessive, sudden or relentless, it’s worth checking whether parasites could be involved.

Staying observant now can save your pet a lot of discomfort later, and save you a much bigger headache once spring arrives.

We crunched the data. Your pets stole the show.

You’ve been busy scooping litter, cleaning pawprints off the sofa and hiding the Christmas biscuits. Behind the scenes, VetBox has been quietly tracking your pet’s parasite protection and pulling together some top-tier stats along the way.

From popular names to breed trends and pet-packed cities, here’s what made 2025 pawsitively unforgettable.

🐶 Most Popular Dog Names

Let’s be honest – the dog park has been 80% Lunas and Buddy’s for a while now.

1. Luna – 237
2. Bella – 226
3. Milo – 210
4. Teddy – 193
5. Buddy – 167

You might just see the name Luna as the most popular name in another category too.

🐱 Most Popular Cat Names

Sweet, sassy and slightly suspicious – the top cat names came with vibes this year.

1. Luna – 60 (Deja-vu?)
2. Milo – 47
3. Oreo – 26
4. Gizmo – 22
5. Nala – 22

Luna once again claims the crown (clearly a fan of moonlight naps). Oreo and Gizmo are giving mischief, while Nala brings the royal energy we expect from felines.

🐕 Most Popular Dog Breeds

We know VetBox pups come in all shapes and sizes, but these five breeds were top dogs.

1. Labrador Retriever – 1,167
2. English Cocker Spaniel – 849
3. Cockapoo – 817
4. French Bulldog – 701
5. Dachshund – 602

Labs remain the nation’s sweetheart – equal parts loyal, energetic and likely to eat your socks.

🐈 Most Popular Cat Breeds

All cats think they’re one-of-a-kind, but turns out some breeds were extra common in 2025.

1. Domestic Short Hair – 646
2. British Shorthair – 576
3. Moggy – 398
4. Mixed Domestic Short Hair – 295
5. Mixed British Shorthair – 221

Whether posh, patchy or pure mystery, these top five ruled the roost.

📍 Most Pet-Packed Cities

Turns out the UK’s real population is four-legged.

Top Dog Cities:

1. London – 655
2. Manchester – 330
3. Glasgow – 315
4. Liverpool – 248
5. Bristol – 240

Top Cat Cities:

1. London – 238
2. Manchester – 130
3. Birmingham – 107
4. Bristol – 95
5. Nottingham – 90

From London’s to Bristol, our subscribers proved one thing: the UK loves its pets (and apparently, really loves naming them Luna).

🎁 And That’s a Wrap

From all of us at VetBox — thanks for letting us be part of your 2025.

We’ll be back next year with more protection, more treats, and probably more Lunas. Until then, give your pets a belly scratch from us.

November often feels like the calm before the Christmas madness, shorter days, colder walks and that slow ramp-up to the busiest time of year. For your pets, it can mean big shifts in routine, comfort and health. Now’s a good time to get ahead! 

Stick to what they know
Even with darker mornings and the clocks changing, pets love a routine. Keep walking, feeding and play times as consistent as possible, even if it means getting the torch out for evening strolls. Routine helps them feel secure and settled.

Keep them moving
It’s tempting to hibernate when it’s gloomy, but pets still need regular movement and mental stimulation. Try indoor enrichment like puzzle feeders, scent games or short bursts of training. For cats, rotate their toys to keep things interesting and, if they’re spending more time inside, add some vertical spaces like shelves, window hammocks or cat trees so they can climb, perch and explore safely indoors.

Ease into the social season
If your pet isn’t a fan of noisy guests, decorations or disruption, now’s a good time to gently start introducing the sights and sounds of what’s to come. A quiet corner or covered crate gives them a calm space to retreat if things get busy.

Watch for sniffles
Cold weather can bring an uptick in sneezes, dry skin and general grouchiness. While a little grumbling is normal, anything more persistent could be worth a vet check.

Keep Christmas Treats Pet-Safe

As seasonal snacks start appearing in the kitchen, it’s a good time to remember which ones are off limits for pets. Some classic Christmas foods can be harmful, even in small amounts. Keep these out of reach:

Foods to avoid:

• Chocolate – especially dark chocolate, which contains theobromine and is toxic to cats and dogs
• Onions, garlic, leeks, shallots and chives – often hidden in gravy, stuffing and leftovers, these can damage red blood cells
• Alcohol – even tiny amounts can be dangerous
• Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants – including mince pies and Christmas pudding, which can lead to kidney failure
• Cooked bones – they can splinter and cause choking or serious internal injuries
• Rich or fatty food – like roast trimmings, skin, pigs in blankets or cheese boards, which can upset stomachs or trigger pancreatitis

Stick to their usual meals and treats, or choose pet-safe Christmas goodies made specially for them. That way they still feel included without the risk.Don’t skip the flea and tick treatment
Fleas and ticks don’t disappear in winter. They just move indoors, where central heating makes life cosy for them too. Sticking to your pet’s monthly treatment is still one of the simplest ways to stop an infestation before it starts

The windows are closing, the heating’s creeping back on and the humans are coughing into their sleeves. Cold season is definitely here, but what about our pets? Can cats and dogs catch colds too? And if they’re sneezing or sniffling, should you be worried?

The short answer: yes, pets can come down with cold-like illnesses, but they’re very different from the ones humans get. Dogs and cats have their own types of viruses that affect their upper respiratory systems. In dogs, one of the most common is known as canine infectious respiratory disease complex (CIRDC), which includes things like kennel cough. In cats, it’s often referred to as “cat flu”, and is usually caused by feline herpesvirus or calicivirus.

The good news is these viruses generally don’t spread between pets and humans. Your cold won’t make your dog sick, and your cat can’t give you the sniffles either. But just like us, they can feel pretty under the weather while they’re fighting it off.

Symptoms can include sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, nasal discharge, tiredness and a lower appetite. Mild cases will often pass with rest, hydration and a bit of TLC, but if your pet seems unusually quiet, has trouble breathing, stops eating or the symptoms stick around for more than a few days, it’s best to check in with your vet.

Vaccinations can help reduce the risk and severity of these illnesses, especially for pets who spend time around others at the groomer, the park, catteries, kennels or daycare. It’s also worth noting that cooler, damper weather can affect pets with pre-existing conditions, like flat-faced breeds or cats with asthma, so this is a good time of year to be extra observant.

So, can pets catch colds? Sort of. Their version of it. The best defence is regular check-ups, staying on top of parasite protection and keeping an eye on any changes in behaviour. They’ll be back to full zoomies (or dramatic staring) before you know it.

Summer’s been a whirlwind of sunshine (sort of), outdoor adventures, and maybe a few staycations. But as the evenings start to draw in and routines shift again, it’s not just humans who notice, our pets do too. Here’s how to help them adjust smoothly to the change in season.

Pets, especially the more routine-loving ones, can be a little thrown when the daily rhythm changes. Whether it’s shorter walks, fewer windows left open, or suddenly having the house to themselves again during the day, some pets may get clingy, anxious, or just a bit off their game. Keep things predictable where you can: stick to regular feeding and walk/play times, offer comfort items like their bed, blanket or toys, and keep goodbyes low-key when leaving the house.

With colder, wetter days creeping in, pets may be indoors more than they’d like, and that can mean pent-up energy or attention-seeking behaviour. Try puzzle feeders or snuffle mats for mealtimes, hide-and-seek games (yes, even for cats), cardboard boxes, tunnels or window perches for extra stimulation, or chews and lick mats to help dogs unwind.

If your pet spent summer surrounded by people, outdoors, or travelling, the sudden calm might feel a bit too quiet. Keep them mentally stimulated with new toys or learning simple tricks at home. And if they seem particularly unsettled, don’t hesitate to check in with your vet.

Fleas, ticks and worms don’t take the season off, in fact, autumn can bring new risks as wildlife moves around and damp conditions set in. Keeping your pet protected year-round is still the move. Luckily, VetBox has that covered.

A little routine, a little enrichment, and a lot of blankets go a long way. Because a happy pet = a peaceful autumn. Even if it’s raining. Again.

What’s normal, what’s not, and what you can do about it.

Scratching at 3am like it’s their full-time job. If your pet has turned into a full-time itcher lately, you’re not alone.

As the weather warms up, all sorts of things can cause itchiness in both dogs and cats, some normal, some worth keeping an eye on. Here’s what might be going on, and what you can do to help.

Common reasons for summer scratching

☀️ Warm weather woes
Hotter weather means more panting, more lounging, and sometimes more irritation. For dogs, warm spots under collars and in skin folds can get itchy. For cats, dry indoor air or extra grooming can irritate their skin.

🌿 Grass, pollen, and plants
Environmental allergies can cause itching, especially in paws, bellies and ears (for dogs), or around the face and neck (for cats). If your pet gets itchy after time outside or near windows, it could be a seasonal sensitivity.

🪲 Fleas: the usual suspects
Even pets on treatment can get the odd flea bite, and if they’re allergic, it only takes one to trigger a scratching session. Fleas thrive in warm weather, and summer is their time to shine (unfortunately).

🍽️ Food or treat changes
Less common, but sometimes a new food or treat doesn’t sit right with their system, and it shows in their skin. If the itching started after a recent diet switch, it’s worth noting.

When should you be concerned?

Some scratching is totally normal, pets explore the world with their faces and paws, after all. But if you notice:

• Constant itching, chewing or licking
• Red or sore patches
• Hair loss or bald spots
• Head shaking or ear scratching
• Skin that smells “off”

…it’s time to speak to your vet.

What you can do at home

✔ Keep up with parasite protection
Prevention is always easier than treatment, and summer is peak flea season. VetBox makes it easy with monthly deliveries of the right treatment for your pet.

✔ Quick rinses after outdoor time
For dogs, a rinse of paws and bellies after walks can help remove pollen or irritants. For cats, brushing and wiping down with a damp cloth can do the trick (if they’ll let you).

✔ Don’t over-bathe
Too many baths can dry out skin, especially in dogs. Stick to pet-friendly shampoo and don’t overdo it.

✔ Clean environment = happy skin
Wash bedding regularly and hoover soft furnishings. Even indoor cats can pick up fleas or dust mites from a passing breeze or visitor.

The takeaway?

A little itch here and there is normal, especially in the summer. But if your pet seems extra bothered, it’s worth checking in, and keeping their parasite protection on track.

Because no one wants “relentlessly itchy” to be the summer vibe.