Too Hot to Handle: A Guide to Heatstroke in Pets

What is heatstroke in pets?

Heatstroke occurs when a pet’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels, usually above 104 degrees Fahrenheit. A pet’s normal body temperature is typically between 100 and 102.5 degrees. Unlike people, pets don’t sweat to cool down and instead rely on panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. When these cooling mechanisms fail to lower their body temperature, heatstroke can set in, leading to severe health complications or death, if not promptly addressed.

What are heatstroke signs in pets?

Recognizing early heatstroke signs is crucial for effective intervention. Some common signs include:

• Heavy, excessive panting
• Thick, ropey drool
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Lethargy or weakness
• Incoordination
• Confusion or disorientation
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Bright red or pale gums
• Collapse or seizures

If you notice any warning heatstroke signs in your furry friend, act quickly to lower their body temperature to a safe level.

What factors can increase my pet’s risk for heatstroke?

While all pets can suffer from heatstroke, certain groups are more susceptible because of their physical characteristics, age, health conditions, or breed-specific traits. Ensure you are familiar with the following risk factors to protect your vulnerable pet:

• Brachycephalic features — Brachycephalic breeds (i.e., with short muzzles and flat faces) are compromised in their ability to pant effectively and cool down. Their airway structure makes dissipating heat more challenging, especially during physical exertion or in high temperatures. Bulldogs, pugs, boxers, Boston terriers, and Persian cats, among other flat-faced breeds, are at an increased risk for overheating.
• Obesity — Excess body fat acts as an insulator and traps heat, so overweight pets find cooling down more difficult. Additionally, overweight pets are more prone to respiratory difficulties, as added pressure from excess fat complicates breathing and panting.
• Age — Young puppies and kittens can be more susceptible to heatstroke, because they have underdeveloped mechanisms for regulating body temperature. Senior pets often have chronic health conditions that affect their cooling ability.
• Pre-existing conditions — Pets with certain medical conditions, such as heart disease, respiratory disorders, and kidney disease, are at a higher heatstroke risk.

Pet owners who understand these risk factors can take targeted measures to prevent heatstroke in their pets. Whether it’s providing extra water, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat, or ensuring access to air conditioning, these precautions can make a significant difference in keeping your pet safe during hot weather.

What do I do if my pet is suffering from heatstroke?

If you suspect your pet is suffering from heatstroke, immediate action is critical. First, move your pet to a cool, shaded area or an air-conditioned space. Then, reach out to the nearest emergency veterinary hospital or your primary care veterinarian for further evaluation and care.

If you are instructed to keep your pet at home, cool them slowly and safely by wetting down their body with tepid water, focusing on the neck, chest, and abdomen. Don’t cool your pet with cold water or ice, because the frigid temperature can shock their body. Additionally, don’t wrap them in wet towels, which will only hinder evaporation and trap heat.

Encourage faster evaporation and heat dissipation with a fan pointed at your pet, and small amounts of cool—not cold—water to drink. Monitor your pet’s body temperature with a rectal thermometer, and stop cooling measures once their temperature drops to 103 degrees.

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention and proactive prevention. When you understand the risks, recognize the signs, and know how to respond, you can protect your pet from this dangerous situation. Unfortunately, heatstroke is an all too common occurrence in pets, so if you suspect your furry friend is overheating, contact your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for assistance.