Keeping Your Cat Safe During BBQ Season

Ah, the sizzle of sausages, the aroma of burgers on the grill... there's nothing quite like a summer barbecue with friends and family. But while we humans may be drooling over the delicious delights cooking up, let's not forget about our furry friends who are eager to join in on the fun.

To ensure a paw-some barbecue experience for everyone, here are some top tips from our team at Animal Medical Centre, to keep your cat safe and happy around the grill. And just in case you need it, here is the emergency number for our vets in Childs Hill - 020 8450 2228. 

How to grill & chill this summer

If you know your cat will be into everything, it may be wise to keep them indoors, but if your cat can handle your ‘BBQ rules', here are the top tips from our team in Childs Hill for how to ‘Grill & Chill':

Create a ‘Safe Zone'

First things first, at Animal Medical Centre, we recommend establishing a designated ‘pet zone' away from the grill and cooking area. Set up a shady spot with water bowls and comfy bedding where cats can stay cool while you flip the burgers. 

Keep an Eye on Pets

Naturally, the sight & smell of food cooking on the grill will tempt your cat to investigate. To prevent them from getting too close to the grill or attempting to steal barbecue food, keep a close eye on them or put someone on ‘grill guard duty' to steer roaming cats away to safety.

Beware of Hot Surfaces

Grills can reach scorching temperatures that pose a burn risk to curious noses and paws, long after cooking has finished. Try using a grill cover or barrier to prevent cats from accessing the grill area altogether to avoid accidental burns and have a plan for hot ash afterwards - see our emergency information.

Pet-safe Barbecue Foods

While it's tempting to share your barbecue feast with your furry pals, not all barbecue foods are safe for cats. Avoid giving them toxic or harmful foods like onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, chicken bones, corn on the cob, and foods high in salt, spices, fatty juices, or sugar. Stick to pet-safe treats like plain grilled chicken or lean meat without seasoning.

Watch Out for Falling Food

Accidents happen, and tasty treats may accidentally fall onto the ground. Picking up dropped food instantly will prevent pets from eating it. This is important, as some items may pose a choking hazard or cause gastrointestinal upset.

Keep Your Pets Hydrated

Provide plenty of water during the barbecue festivities for your cat to drink. If they seem unwell, call our vets in Childs Hill on 020 8450 2228.

Have a Plan for Leftovers

Clearing up thoroughly straight after a BBQ is vital when you have pets. Disposing of barbecue leftovers and scraps promptly and securely will prevent cats from scavenging through the rubbish. Leftover bones, skewers, and other barbecue remnants can pose choking or gastrointestinal hazards if ingested by pets.

With these grill-tastic tips in mind, you and your furry friends can enjoy a safe and enjoyable barbecue season together in Greater London. Plus, you'll be helping to keep wildlife safe too! So, fire up the grill, gather your friends and family, and let the summer celebrations begin!

And remember, call 020 8450 2228 in an emergency. 

See our contact and emergency information