A reflective quick-release collar can make an outdoor cat easier for drivers to see at night. Keeping cats indoors after dark can also reduce the risk of road traffic accidents, particularly in areas with busy roads.
Animal Trust
Keeping Your Pet Safe During the Darker Evenings
As the evenings become darker, pets can be much harder for their owners, drivers and cyclists to see when they are outdoors. This is particularly important around roads and other areas where there is traffic.
Darker conditions can also make it harder for owners to see hazards on walks or when pets are outside. Taking a few simple precautions can help improve visibility and reduce the risks associated with being outdoors in low light.
Further reading: Fireworks - Pet Safety Advice
Why is reduced visibility a risk?
Pets that are difficult to see are at greater risk of being involved in accidents, particularly around roads. Drivers and cyclists may not see a dog or cat until they are very close, reducing the time available to react.
Reduced visibility can also make it harder for owners to keep track of their dogs, particularly when they are off the lead. Hazards such as uneven ground, obstacles or other animals may also be harder to see during darker walks.
How can I keep my pet safe on darker evenings?
Use reflective or high-visibility collars, harnesses or leads, and consider an LED or light-up accessory.
When walking dogs near roads, keep them on a lead and use well-lit routes where possible.
Be aware of hazards that may be harder to see in low light, such as uneven ground, obstacles or other animals.
Wear reflective or high-visibility clothing when walking in the dark so that you are also visible to drivers and cyclists.
Extra care is advisable when walking near roads, particularly on poorly lit routes or during busy traffic periods. Dogs that are easily distracted, prone to chasing or likely to pull away from their owners may be at greater risk.
Owners should also take particular care with dogs that are allowed off the lead in areas where visibility is poor, and with cats that regularly cross or spend time near roads after dark.
Author
Written by Gillian Burkhill, Veterinary Surgeon, Animal Trust Vets CIC | Published October 2026 | Review date October 2029 | This advice is for UK pets only and is not a replacement for seeing a vet