How to Spot Heatstroke in Pets
When the weather turns hot and humid, many people begin to feel uncomfortable — and the same goes for dogs and cats. Pets can easily suffer from heat-related illnesses if they are exposed to extreme temperatures for too long.
Early Warning Signs
If your pet is breathing rapidly, panting excessively, drooling, or — in the case of cats — breathing with their mouth open, these may be signs of heatstroke. Dogs often pant to release heat, but cats rarely do, so open-mouth breathing in cats should always be taken seriously.
Severe Symptoms
When a pet begins vomiting or experiencing diarrhea, or if their tongue turns red or purple, or they lose consciousness, it indicates a severe stage of heatstroke. Immediate veterinary attention is required.
Keep your pets cool, hydrated, and never leave them in hot environments. Quick action can save their lives during extreme heat.
Does Shaving Help Pets Stay Cool?
Many pet owners believe shaving their furry companions during summer helps them cool down. However, a pet's coat is more than just fur—it serves important functions such as blocking ultraviolet rays, repelling water, keeping insects away, regulating temperature, and providing insulation.
Completely shaving off all the fur can remove these protective benefits, leaving pets vulnerable to sunburn, insect bites, and overheating. Pet hair actually plays a role in dissipating heat effectively when intact.
If the goal is to help pets feel more comfortable in hot weather, experts recommend trimming the fur to about one centimeter in length. This way, the coat retains its essential protective abilities while allowing for better air circulation and heat release.
In short, shaving your pet too closely can do more harm than good. Maintaining a short but protective coat is the safest way to keep them cool and healthy through the summer months.
Keeping Pets Cool in the Summer Heat
During scorching summer days, it's best to avoid taking your furry companions outside between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when the sun is at its hottest. Choose shaded areas for outdoor activities whenever possible and always bring plenty of drinking water to keep them hydrated.
Some pet owners prefer to use strollers for their dogs and cats. Attaching a small fan to the stroller can help provide a gentle breeze and make the ride more comfortable. You can also prepare some wet towels or moist wipes. If your pet shows signs of heatstroke, gently wipe their ears, paw pads, belly, or neck with the cloth. Sprinkling a bit of water on these areas can also help lower their body temperature.
However, never use ice-cold water, as it can cause the body temperature to drop too quickly and lead to further health issues. Keeping your pets cool and safe helps ensure they stay healthy and happy all summer long.
Keeping Indoor Pets Cool and Comfortable
If your furry friend stays indoors, using an electric fan to help circulate the air in your home can make them feel cooler and more comfortable. Whether you need to turn on the air conditioner depends on the room temperature. Ideally, the temperature should be kept between 25°C and 28°C to avoid being too cold or too hot.
For pets with short noses, such as certain breeds of dogs and cats, air conditioning is highly recommended. These animals have a harder time regulating their body temperature through breathing and are more prone to overheating.
Additionally, pay attention to indoor humidity levels. High humidity can make the environment feel stuffy and increase the perceived temperature, which raises the risk of heatstroke. Keeping the air dry and well-ventilated will help maintain a healthy and comfortable atmosphere for your pets.
