This World Animal Day (October 4), the RSPCA is highlighting the "chilling" future which could lie ahead for animal welfare, if people don't act now.

People are being invited to "spend five minutes" this World Animal Day playing a groundbreaking new RSPCA game which explores what the future could have in store for animals.

The game urges people to consider the impacts climate change, the loss of natural habitats, rapid demographic changes and technological advancements are having on the animal kingdom, and how things may look by 2050

It follows the launch of a landmark new 'Animal Futures' report from futures agency Firetail, commissioned by the RSPCA.

The report explores developments as diverse as robotic pets, nature retreats reserved for the rich, lab-grown meat on our dinner plates, and artificial intelligence allowing people to talk to their animals.

But it also fears grim futures could lie ahead for animals, people and the planet.

Gemma Hope, the RSPCA's assistant director for policy, advocacy and evidence, said: "This World Animal Day, the future for animals at home and abroad is at a crossroads.

"The theme of World Animal Day is 'the world is their home too' - but we know that animals are facing huge challenges from climate change and nature loss, to the rapid growth of lower welfare farming, which could see their homes destroyed.

"We need to urgently rethink our relationship with our fellow living creatures. The fate of animals, whether on farms, labs, in homes or the wild, is inextricably linked to our own, and we know the decisions we make today will have a seismic impact on their future.

"Our Animal Futures project not only considers what the future holds for animals, but encourages people to consider their own actions and how they can shape that future."

The report combines scientific evidence, emerging trends and interviews from across the animal, climate change and alternative protein sectors. The report also sought the views of thought leaders and influencers, and marks a first of its kind for animal welfare.

It explores five possible future scenarios for animals - and humans - depending on the actions society takes now. These are:

• Tech-centric: Technology has been harnessed to tackle climate change and feeding ourselves, but sadly nature and animals have had to come second place.
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• Eco carnage: Climate change has made lots of land uninhabitable, for both people and animals, and as humans struggle for survival, animal welfare is forgotten.
• Blinkered world: Attempts to tackle climate change and food production haven't been ambitious enough, which means a mixed picture for animals and people alike.
• One Planet: The big challenges facing people have been tackled in a way that protects animal wellbeing and nature, recognising our futures are interlinked.
• Animals speak up: An amazing event has completely changed our attitudes towards animals and we have transformed the way we think, feel and act towards them.

The report has been "brought to life" through an immersive online gaming experience - where players can explore these five worlds.

Players are invited to choose an animal companion as their character - a lovable fox, dog or cow - who guides them through the five worlds; which vary from positive to potentially chilling futures for the planet.

The experience, created by leading global game studio Unseen, aims to demonstrate that the choices people make today could build a better world for animals - and people.

Players can collect 15 collectible digital cards as they navigate the five worlds - and can share their progress with their friends on social media.

Gemma added: "Some of the worlds predicted in the game may seem bleak, or even downright chilling - but the good news is that animals' futures are in our hands.

"We'd love as many people as possible to spend five minutes playing the game this World Animal Day, and find out how the choices they make today could build a better world for animals - and us - tomorrow."

The online game is the first step in the project, and users will be invited to sign up to participate in the next stage - a national consultation about attitudes to animal welfare launching later this year to help shape the next steps we need to take for a better future for all animals.

People across the country can visit rspca.org.uk/animalfutures to experience Animal Futures or sign up to have their say on a better world for every kind.