Winter might be over officially but the cold is here to stay a little longer and so are concerns for the well-being of pint-sized pets.
The RSPCA has issued a warning to owners of small pets, such as rabbits and guinea pigs, to ensure their animals are receiving the proper safety and care they require during cooler conditions.
"Just because these animals are little doesn't mean they deserve any less love or care," RSPCA Victoria inspectorate team leader Belinda Dent said.
The RSPCA has received more than 30 reports of animal cruelty related to small animals this winter.
The inspectorate team has brought in more than 50 small animals since the start of June.
"They can be quite fragile," Ms Dent said.
"When we get animals that come in, and they are in a bit of a poor way, it really is just a bit of TLC they need."
Know what your pet needs
Ms Dent said the main reason they had so many small pets come through their doors was because many people did not understand what goes into taking care of their animals.
"I'm just not sure that people that own our little pocket friends are aware of the fact that they can take up a little bit of time, particularly in the cooler months," she said.
"It's a great idea to bring your animals inside [at night] and then take them out again in the mornings.
"During colder weather, we find smaller animals need extra food to help keep them warm."
The RSPCA has other tips on how to care for your small pets, which you can read on their website, such as bringing them inside and giving them a nice warm spot to live.
Tips for coping with a cold spring
While spring is expected to bring some warmer days, the Bureau of Meteorology has forecast a wet September with an average daytime temperature of 17 degrees Celsius.
"For those who live in areas that get really cold, you may even consider providing your animals with a pet-safe heat pad to keep them super toasty," Ms Dent said.
"Small animals are particularly susceptible to extreme temperatures and sudden changes in temperature, so a mild day followed by a cold evening, which is often the case in spring, can be particularly problematic for our little friends."
