As summer temperatures soar, it’s essential to consider the well-being of our beloved pets in the face of rising heat. Just as humans are susceptible, our pets also face risks such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. While we can seek shade, the pool, air conditioning, or an ice-cold treat, what about our dogs and cats?
How pets stay cool
Dogs and cats have several natural mechanisms to regulate their body temperature and keep them cool. Unlike humans, they don’t sweat to cool down. While pets have some sweat glands on their paw pads, they cannot manage extreme heat. When dogs and, to a lesser extent, cats become overheated, they rely on panting to release excess heat, cool their internal organs, and maintain their body temperature. However, when panting is no longer effective, it can lead to heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heatstroke.
Hot weather dangers for pets – heat exhaustion and heatstroke
The average body temperature in pets ranges between 99 degrees to 102 degrees. Heat exhaustion occurs when the pet’s body temperature exceeds the normal range. Heat exhaustion signs may not be immediately apparent until the situation becomes dire. Monitor your pets for the following signs:
- Excessive panting
- Actively seeking shade or water
- Wide, stressed eyes
- Increased heart rate and pulse
- Dark red gums and tongue
- Inability to walk
Heatstroke can develop rapidly from heat exhaustion, and both conditions have similar signs. Heatstroke occurs when a pet’s body temperature reaches 104 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, and internal cooling mechanisms fail to regulate it.
In addition to the signs mentioned before, such as excessive panting and rapid heartbeat, watch out for symptoms like drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and extreme lethargy. These additional symptoms can indicate that heat exhaustion is progressing to heatstroke, and pet owners must take immediate action to cool their pet down and seek veterinary care.
What to do if you suspect your pet is overheated
If your pet is panting excessively, can’t seem to get comfortable, is lethargic, or actively seeking shade and water, take action immediately.
- Move your pet to the shade or preferably air conditioning immediately.
- Take their temperature with a rectal thermometer every few minutes to ensure it’s decreasing.
- Soak towels in cool water —not cold—and place them on your pet’s belly, groin, and armpits; continue as needed. Pets should not be submerged in water, as this can cause hypothermia.
- Rubbing alcohol should NOT be used to cool pets down.
- Use a fan to blow cool air over your pet’s body.
- Once your pet’s temperature reaches 103 degrees, stop treatment.
- Bring your pet to the veterinary emergency clinic immediately. Overheating in pets is an emergency because pets with heatstroke are at risk of organ failure and death.
Even if your pet seems recovered, a veterinary assessment is still crucial for their health. Shock, dehydration, kidney and liver failure, and other organ damage can still occur due to the excess body temperature (a rectal temperature of 104 F is closer to 106 F + at the core of the body), and they need monitoring and medical support to ensure they are completely safe.
How to keep pets cool
Because heat exhaustion and heatstroke are such dangers, pet owners must be vigilant and know how to keep their pets cool. Follow these tips to help your pets stay cool and comfortable during the sweltering summer months.
- Provide Shade and Ventilation — Ensure your pets can access shaded areas and well-ventilated spaces indoors to escape the heat. If pets are inside at home during the day, ensure your air conditioning is set to a lower temperature, and draw drapes in the morning to keep out the sun’s rays.
- Use Cooling Mats or Fans — Consider using cooling mats or fans to help lower the temperature in your pet’s environment, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
- Ensure Access to Fresh Water — Provide your pets access to plenty of fresh and clean water, indoors and outdoors, to keep them hydrated and cool. Cats will enjoy a pet water fountain, encouraging them to drink and avoid dehydration. You can add ice cubes to water bowls to keep the water cooler.
- Limit Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat Hours — Be mindful when scheduling outdoor activities with your pets. Avoid the hottest parts of the day and opt for early morning or evening walks instead.
- Monitor for Signs of Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke — Watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke in your pets, such as excessive panting, weakness, or drooling. If you notice any concerning symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.
It is essential to prioritize your pet’s health and well-being in hot weather. Because the dog days of summer have been even hotter each year, it’s more imperative than usual that pet owners are aware of the danger and how to help their pets. If you have any questions or concerns, call us at 949-653-9300 or if you’re in Orange County, CA, we welcome your visit to our urgent care. Be sure to check our current hours in the footer of our website.