The best way to keep snakes away from dogs and cats is to make your yard less inviting to snakes. Keep grass short, clear away clutter and wood piles, and control rodents. If you do see a snake, move your pets away and leave the snake alone. If you think your pet has been bitten, keep them calm and go to the vet straight away.
Why snakes come into backyards
Snakes look for food, shelter and warmth. A backyard with long grass, piles of wood or rubbish, and mice or rats offers all three. Snakes are most active in the warmer months, so spring and summer are the riskiest times for curious dogs and cats.
How to snake-proof your yard
RSPCA Australia and the Animal Referral & Emergency Network (AREN) recommend:
- Keep grass short. Snakes love hiding in long grass.
- Trim shrubs and trees. Dense, low growth gives snakes cover.
- Clear away clutter. Remove rubbish piles, wood piles and anything a snake could hide under.
- Control rodents. Mice and rats attract snakes. Store pet food and bird seed in sealed containers.
- Keep chicken pens clean. AREN notes that chicken pens are an obvious haven for snakes.
- Consider a snake-proof fence. In snake-prone areas, AREN suggests a fence that is dug into the ground.
Keeping pets safe on walks
- Keep your dog on a lead, especially near water.
- Avoid long, grassy areas.
- Don’t let your dog explore holes or dig under rocks.
For cats, RSPCA Australia recommends keeping them indoors with access to a snake-proof outdoor enclosure.
What to do if you see a snake
- Walk away slowly and keep an eye on the snake from a safe distance.
- Secure your pets inside or on a lead.
- Don’t try to catch or kill the snake.
- Call a licensed snake catcher if the snake stays around.
- If the snake is inside, close the door to that room and put a towel along the gap under the door.
Signs of snake bite in dogs and cats
RSPCA Australia lists these signs:
- Sudden weakness followed by collapse
- Shaking or twitching of the muscles, and difficulty blinking
- Vomiting
- Loss of bladder and bowel control
- Dilated pupils
- Paralysis
- Blood in the urine
If you notice any of these signs, see a vet straight away.
What to do if your pet is bitten
- Keep your pet calm and quiet. Carry them if you can.
- Go to the vet straight away. Early treatment improves the chance of recovery.
- Don’t wash the wound or apply a tourniquet.
- Don’t try to catch the snake. If you can describe it safely, tell your vet. Your vet can also run a test to help identify the venom.
- If you’re far from a clinic, call your vet on the way for advice.
For more detail, read our guides to snake bite in cats and pets and snake bites.
FAQ
What keeps snakes away from dogs?
A tidy yard is the best deterrent. Keep grass short, remove wood and rubbish piles, control rodents and keep your dog on a lead on walks in snake areas.
Do snake repellents work?
RSPCA Australia and AREN focus on removing shelter and food rather than repellents. A clear, short-grassed yard gives snakes fewer reasons to visit.
Should I kill a snake in my yard?
No. Don’t try to catch or kill a snake. Move your pets away and call a licensed snake catcher if it doesn’t leave.
How quickly do signs of snake bite show in dogs?
Signs can vary. Go to the vet straight away if you think your pet has been bitten, even if they seem fine. Early treatment improves the chance of recovery.
Be ready for the unexpected
Snake bite treatment can include antivenom and time in hospital. Find out how dog insurance or cat insurance could help with unexpected vet bills.
Sources
- RSPCA Australia: Hot tips for snakes in spring
- Animal Referral & Emergency Network: Protecting your pet from snakes
This article is general information only and isn’t a substitute for advice from your vet. If you think your pet has been bitten by a snake, contact your vet or nearest emergency vet straight away.