Heat Exhaustion in Pets: Keeping Your Cat or Dog Safe from Summer Heat

Heat exhaustion in pets can come on suddenly, and it can quickly become heat stroke- an emergency situation- if not handled right away. Some dog breeds, such as pugs, Pekinese and bulldogs, are more prone to heat exhaustion and heat stroke than others, but all pets are vulnerable in extremely hot conditions.

The first symptoms of heat exhaustion in pets are panting and difficulty breathing. At the beginning stages, moving your pet to a cool area may help him recover. Cool your pet off with a hose or faucet and a fan if his body temperature has risen above 104 degrees Fahrenheit for a dog or 105 degrees Fahrenheit for a cat. You can also place a bag of ice between his legs to help cool him down. Bring your pet in for a checkup even if he recovers from mild heat exhaustion because lingering problems can cause seizures, kidney problems or circulatory problems hours or days after a heat stroke incident. If your pet's symptoms progress and you notice thick saliva, vomiting, an unsteady gait or bloody diarrhea after prolonged heat exposure, you should bring your pet in to Trinity Pet Hospital for emergency treatment right away. Lack of treatment can lead to a coma or even the death of your pet.

Learning how to protect your dog or cat from the summer heat

Protecting your pet from summer heat involves keeping her indoors or in a shaded area during the hottest months of the year. Avoid leaving your pet in the car because vehicle interiors heat rapidly in the sun. Prevent your pet from being overly active outdoors during hot, humid days, and provide her with a cool, shaded place to rest and relax. Make sure your pet always has fresh water available to prevent dehydration. If heat stroke does occur, Trinity Pet Hospital offers emergency services in Laguna Hills to help your pet.

How do you keep your pet cool during the warm summer months? Let us know in the comments!