23/06/2024
Why do cats or dogs get heat stroke?
Itโs easy for our pets to overheat in warm weather. Unlike us,they donโt always have an option to move themselves to cooler places or avoid the sun. Animals are unable to cool down by sweating as humans do, so they are less able to regulate their body temperature.
Dogs and cats can suffer from heatstroke, a life-threatening condition where the body temperature increases to a point where serious consequences, including organ failure and even death, can occur.
more susceptible to heatstroke?
Animals that are overweight
Flat faced breeds such as Pugs and French Bulldogs, or Persian cats
Pets with thick coats
Old or very young animals
Animals with pre-existing conditions.
causes.
It doesnโt always have to be โhotโ for an animal to develop heatstroke. Exercising excessively in warm weather, or being left in a warm or humid environment that is poorly ventilated can cause animals to quickly overheat.
Early signs of heatstroke.
can include;
Panting,
Restlessness or agitation, pacing, seeking shade or water
Drooling
Red gums or tongue
Increased heart rate
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Advanced stages
can include:
Lethargy
Confusion
Weakness or collapse
Seizures.
First aid
- tips for pet owners
If you are concerned that your pet is overheating, you should act immediately, as heatstroke can rapidly become a life-threatening emergency; We recommend to โcool first, transport secondโ as the immediate first aid response for dogs with heatstroke. Owners should also seek veterinary advice ASAP.
Offer them small sips of water to pet.
Cold water immersion is an effective approach for young, healthy dogs
Evaporation method: Pouring water cool or freshwater over them and combine with air movement from a breeze, fan, or air conditioning (evaporative cooling) for older dogs or dogs with underlying health problems.
if you cannot use the evaporation method, cool them down by pouring/hosing cool water on them. Itโs important not to use ice-cold water as this can reduce blood flow to the skin, reducing their ability to cool down or even cause them to shiver, increasing heat generation.
Once youโve started these steps, call your vets who will be able to advise you further. Even if your pet seems to be ok itโs important to have them checked as the more serious signs of heatstroke may not be immediately apparent.
Your vet will examine your pet, and carry out a full assessment including a temperature check. If they are concerned that your pet is suffering from heatstroke they may advise that they are admitted for tests, supportive treatment, or observation until the signs of heatstroke have resolved.
Tips for preventing heat stroke in dogs and cats
You can help to keep your pet cool and comfortable in summer by:
Make sure your pet always has access to a cool shaded area, both indoors and outside
Restrict exercise on warm days.
Never leave pets in a car or a hot room.
Ensure your pet always has drinking water available.
Vet Muhammad Talha Aslam Kandyara
