Identify Pet Heat Exhaustion Before It Causes Them Harm - and Potential Financial Strain for You
As temperatures soar, it's crucial to keep our furry friends safe and cool indoors. Here's what pet owners need to know about heat exhaustion in pets and the steps to take if their pet is overheating.
Signs of Heat Exhaustion in Pets
Early warning signs of heat exhaustion in pets include excessive panting, thicker, stickier drooling, rapid heartbeat, unusual lethargy or weakness, difficulty breathing or struggling to catch breath after mild activity, vomiting or diarrhea, changes in gum color—bright red or pale gums, confusion or unsteadiness on their feet, and in some cases, collapse, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
What to Do If Your Pet is Overheating
- Move the pet immediately to a cool, shaded, and well-ventilated area.
- Apply cool (not ice-cold) water or wet towels on the pet’s body to help lower temperature; ice can cause shock and should be avoided.
- Offer small amounts of water to drink if the pet is conscious and able.
- Avoid forcing water if the pet is vomiting or unconscious.
- Monitor symptoms closely—if severe symptoms such as collapse, seizures, or unconsciousness appear, seek immediate veterinary care.
At-Risk Pets
Certain pets are more vulnerable to heat exhaustion, including puppies, kittens, seniors, overweight animals, brachycephalic breeds (flat-faced dogs like bulldogs and pugs), pets with dark coats, or those with underlying health issues.
Preventing Heat Exhaustion
Preventing heat exhaustion in pets involves keeping them indoors during hot weather, avoiding outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day, and providing plenty of water and shade during walks. If at home, placing a pet in front of a fan or near an air conditioner vent can help cool them down.
Preparing for Emergencies
Shopping for pet insurance is recommended to prepare for emergencies like heat exhaustion. Heat-related illnesses are on the rise in both humans and animals, and recognising these early signs and responding quickly can prevent progression to heatstroke and potentially save your pet's life.
Additional Tips
- Cool, damp towels can be applied to a pet's fur, focusing on armpits, ears, paws, and the groin area.
- In cats, restlessness or excessive grooming, disorientation or weakness, seizures, or collapse can be signs of heat exhaustion.
- If home upgrades have not been made to survive the record-breaking heat, now is the time to do so.
- Apple AirTags can be used to track pets, especially during heatwaves.
- More than 100 million Americans will experience days of relentless heat this week.
Remember, heat exhaustion in pets is typically covered by pet insurance as an accidental injury. If in doubt, always consult a veterinary professional. Stay cool and stay safe!
- In order to prepare for heat-related emergencies, it's wise to consider shopping for pet insurance.
- To help prevent heat exhaustion in cats, one should be watchful for signs such as restlessness, excessive grooming, or disorientation.
- If homes require upgrades to withstand record-breaking heat, it might be time to consider making those changes.
- In addition to preparing indoor spaces for pets during hot weather, the use of Apple AirTags can be beneficial for tracking pets, especially during heatwaves.
