WITH temperatures set to plummet below freezing this weekend and snow already settling in some areas in Hampshire, pet owners are being advised to protect their furry friends.

Leading pet charity Blue Cross has issued a warning to pet owners to protect their animals from gritter salt, antifreeze and wintery temperatures.

Road salt and antifreeze can be toxic to animals and signs of poisoning include lethargy, vomiting, appetite loss and drinking excessively.

Mark Bossley, Blue Cross chief vet, said: “Cats seem to like the taste of antifreeze which is highly poisonous to them.

"Our animal hospitals are braced to see a number of cats over the next few days needing emergency treatment after being poisoned.

"Salt too, can easily get on a pet’s paws or fur and be swallowed when they groom themselves.

"Always check your pet’s paws when they come inside and wash off any salt or grit.

"Be vigilant, if your cat appears to be ill always contact your vet as quickly as possible.”

The charity has urged cat owners to consider keeping cats indoors during the big freeze to prevent them looking for warm places that could be dangerous to them, like car engines, if they can’t get safely indoors.

Grit and salt can also be harmful to dog and irritate their paws.

Owners are advised to wash their pooch's feet after walks and check there is nothing stuck between their pads.

Fur between pads should also be trimmed to prevent ice-balls forming which can be painful.

Dog should also be kept on leads around frozen water and you should not go after your dog if they do run onto ice.

Pet should not be left outdoors for too long as they can develop hypothermia if they remain in the cold for long periods.

Small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs are particularly vulnerable and you may want to bring them inside if possible, or make sure they have extra bedding to keep them warm.