Summer Warning Understanding Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats

Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats: A Danger That Comes With Summer

During extremely hot weather, especially when temperatures spike above 40 degrees Celsius, our pets face a high risk of heatstroke, a dangerous condition that pet owners should be cautious about and prepared to handle.

What Is Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats?

"Heatstroke" is when a pet's body loses its ability to release heat.
When a dog or cat's body can't dissipate heat quickly enough, the rising body temperature affects the function of various organs, leading to respiratory failure. Heatstroke during hot weather doesn't just affect humans -- it can happen in pets too, and dogs and cats are especially prone to it, with symptoms that tend to be quite severe.

Symptoms of Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats

Danger Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs

• Body temperature above 40 degrees
• Red tongue and gums
• Thick, stringy saliva and vomiting
• Stumbling, weakness
• Fainting/loss of consciousness
• Rapid, labored breathing

Danger Signs of Heatstroke in Cats

• Frequent licking of fur
• Body temperature above 40 degrees
• Restlessness
• Rapid, labored breathing
• Sweating from the paw pads
• Red tongue and mouth

Basic First Aid Steps

• Move your pet to a cool location -- a shaded, well-ventilated area, or an air-conditioned room.
• Use cool water to help lower body temperature:
  • Use cool water (not ice-cold water) to gently pour over your pet's body.
  • Wipe down with a cool, damp cloth, especially on the underside of the paw pads, armpits, and groin area.
  • Never cover your pet with a wet cloth, as this actually reduces heat dissipation.
• Give your pet cool water to drink a little at a time -- be careful not to let them drink too fast, as this could cause vomiting.
• Bring them to see a veterinarian -- even if outward symptoms improve, they should still be examined to assess any internal damage that may have resulted from the heat.

How to Prevent Heatstroke

• Avoid outdoor activities during extremely hot weather.
• Always have cool drinking water ready, and consider adding small ice cubes.
• Keep their living space cool and comfortable, such as by using a fan or air conditioner.
• Use cooling gel pads to help lower body temperature.

Cooling Techniques to Prevent Heatstroke

Heatstroke Summary

Heatstroke during the hot season is a very serious condition for pets, since Thailand's weather is hot year-round. Owners need to regularly observe their pet's behavior for signs that put them at risk of heatstroke, and during this period, outdoor activities should be avoided during hot weather for your pet's safety. Knowing how to prevent it and provide basic first aid can help save your pet's life. If you suspect your pet is showing signs of heatstroke, bring them to see a veterinarian as quickly as possible.