Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs & Cats

As the weather warms up, our furry friends enjoy the sunshine just as much as we do. However, it’s vital to remember that cats and dogs can suffer from heat stroke, a condition that can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly. Recognising the signs of heat stroke in your pets and knowing what to do can make all the difference.

Here, we’ll guide you through the symptoms to watch out for in both dogs and cats and provide advice on prevention and emergency actions.

Heatstroke in Animals

Heatstroke, also known as heat stress or hyperthermia, occurs when an animal’s body temperature rises beyond the normal range, leading to potential cellular damage, organ failure, or even death if not promptly addressed. The normal body temperature for dogs and cats ranges approximately from 38.3°C to 39.2°C. Heatstroke typically occurs when their body temperature exceeds 39.4°C.

Unlike us, we can sweat through most of our skin to cool down, but cats and dogs have limited means of regulating their body temperature.

Dogs primarily pant to expel heat, while cats do so through panting, grooming (spreading saliva which cools them as it evaporates), and some sweating through their paw pads.

The impact of heatstroke on their bodies can be profound. As the body temperature rises, it can lead to inflammation, blood clotting disorders, and damage to the body’s cells. The heart, brain, liver, kidneys, and gastrointestinal tract can all suffer irreversible damage, making heatstroke a critical emergency that requires immediate intervention.

Understanding what heatstroke is and recognising it when it occurs is essential for all pet owners. By knowing how to prevent it and what to do if it occurs, you can protect your pets from this dangerous condition and ensure they remain healthy and happy during the warmer months.

Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs:

Dogs can be particularly vulnerable to heat stroke due to their furry coats and less efficient cooling systems. Here are the key symptoms to watch out for:

• Excessive Panting and Drooling: dogs rely primarily on panting to cool down. If you notice your dog panting more heavily than usual or drooling excessively, it could be a sign of heat stroke.
• Increased Heart Rate: A rapid heartbeat can also indicate your dog is struggling to cool down.
• Lethargy or Weakness: If your dog seems unusually tired, weak, or even collapses, it could be a serious sign of overheating.
• Vomiting or Diarrhoea: Gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting or diarrhoea, sometimes with blood, can occur.
• Reddened Gums: The gums may appear brighter red than normal, a sign of increased body temperature.
• Confusion or Dizziness: Watch for signs of disorientation or trouble walking, which can indicate heat stroke.

Signs of Heat Stroke in Cats:

Cats are often more discreet with their discomfort, making it crucial to be observant of subtle changes:

• Rapid Breathing: Similar to dogs, an increase in panting or rapid breathing is a key sign, although less common in cats.
• Restlessness: A cat trying to find a cool spot repeatedly can be a sign of discomfort due to heat.
• Bright Red Gums: Check your cat’s gums for a bright red colour, indicating overheating.
• Increased Heart Rate: A rapid heartbeat can signal distress from heat.
• Lethargy: Cats may become unusually lethargic and less responsive.
• Vomiting: Vomiting is a more serious sign that could indicate heat stroke.

Preventing Heat Stroke in Your Pets

Prevention is always better than cure.

Here are some tips to help keep your pets safe from heat stroke:

• Provide plenty of fresh water and shade. Always ensure your pets have access to clean drinking water and a cool, shaded spot.
• Avoid exercising pets in the hottest parts of the day. Early morning or late evening walks are best.
• Never leave pets in a parked car, even with the windows open. Temperatures can rise rapidly to dangerous levels.
• Consider pet-friendly sunscreens, especially for pets with thin fur.
• Keep indoor spaces cool: use fans, air conditioning, or by closing curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block the sun.

The Risk of Heatstroke in Your Pets While Travelling or in Vehicles

During hot weather travelling with pets, whether for leisure or necessity, requires careful consideration to avoid the risk of heatstroke. Vehicles can quickly become deadly traps for animals, even with seemingly mild temperatures outside. This risk is not limited to cars alone but extends to other enclosed spaces like vans, caravans, or any transport vehicle.

Inside Cars and Other Vehicles

The temperature inside a vehicle can soar to dangerous levels within minutes, regardless of whether it’s parked in the shade, has windows cracked open, or it doesn’t feel that hot outside. This rapid increase in temperature can lead to a critical situation for any animal inside.

For example, on a 22°C day, the temperature inside a car can rocket to 47°C in just 60 minutes. This environment can cause heatstroke in pets very quickly, leading to severe organ damage or death.

Travelling Precautions

• Never Leave Pets Unattended: Even a few minutes can be dangerous. If you must stop, ensure someone stays with the pet in a cooled environment or use air conditioning to keep the vehicle cool.
• Ensure Adequate Ventilation: If travelling without air conditioning, ensure windows are open enough to promote good airflow but not so much that a pet can escape or be at risk of injury.
• Regular Breaks: Take frequent breaks on long journeys to allow your pet to drink water and cool off outside the vehicle.
• Use Sunshades: They can help to keep the vehicle cooler when parked, but should not be relied upon to keep pets safe for any duration.

Heat stroke in pets is preventable with the right care and attention. By recognising the signs and knowing what to do, you can ensure your furry friends enjoy the warmer months safely.

Remember, if you’re ever in doubt about your pet’s health, contacting your veterinarian or the RSPCA for advice is always the best course of action. Stay cool and safe!