According to new research released by Gas Safe Register, 99% of UK pet owners were not able to correctly identify all of the signs that can indicate their pet could be suffering from poisoning from a carbon monoxide (CO) leak.
A total of 74% didn’t realise red gums, ears or lips are some of the tell-tale signs of carbon monoxide poisoning in dogs and cats. Whilst a similar proportion of pet owners were also unaware the following could also be signs of CO poisoning in their pets: irritable behaviour, drowsiness, difficulty breathing and breathlessness.
CO is a deadly gas which is emitted from household appliances, including faulty boilers and gas cookers. It cannot be seen, tasted or smelt. A statement said that as pets are often left in confined spaces for extended periods of time while owners are out at work and due to their smaller body sizes, they can be more vulnerable to CO exposure and can be the first to show the signs.
To mark this year’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, which takes place from 18 to 24 November, Gas Safe Register has joined forces with the RSPCA to ensure pet owners are aware on the warning signs and essential gas safety habits around the home which could save lives including those of pets.
Caroline Allen, RSPCA’s chief Vet, said: “Pets’ smaller size and lower lung capacity makes them more sensitive to CO exposure, so they may be among the first to feel the effects if there is a leak in your home.
“Obviously our pets can’t speak to us to tell us how they’re feeling so it’s really important that we keep a close eye for any changes in their behaviour or any physical symptoms that could suggest they’re unwell, or might have been exposed to something dangerous.
“Therefore, we are urging the public to brush up on the symptoms of CO poisoning in pets which can include drowsiness, vomiting, being unstable, reddened gums, and unusual or unexplained changes in behaviour. If you see any of these symptoms or are at all concerned about your pet we’d urge you to urgently ventilate the space, seek fresh air and speak to your vet.”
The study showed that 11% would take their pet out for some fresh air if they displayed the symptoms of CO poisoning, which is one of the key steps to reducing the impact of the toxic gas.
Whilst pet owners typically spend around £2,000 per year to take care of their pets, 22% of pet owners with gas appliances in their home still do not own a carbon monoxide alarm.
Rob Denman, head of professional and field services at Gas Safe Register, added: “Carbon monoxide can be extremely dangerous, even deadly, especially as it’s an odourless, colourless and tasteless gas. As a nation of pet lovers, it is concerning that the majority of pet owners could not identify all of the potential signs and symptoms of CO poisoning in their pets.
“This concern is heightened by Gas Safe Register’s latest inspection data, which reveals up to 1 in 5 UK homes could have an unsafe gas appliance. Left not serviced and unchecked year-on-year, gas appliances such as cookers, fires and boilers, can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, as well as gas leaks which – in some extreme circumstances – can lead to, fires and explosions that can cost lives.
“This week is Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week and I want to make a personal plea for pet parents – and households – up and down the country to mark it by taking a gas safety action. Learn the signs of unsafe gas so you can spot it in your home, your family and housemates and in your pets, and get an audible carbon monoxide alarm. It really could save lives.”