Heat stress and heat stroke are dangerous conditions brought on by exposure to heat. The normal body temperature for dogs and cats is between 100-and 102.5-degrees Fahrenheit. Pets will begin to display symptoms of heat stress when their body temperature is elevated above this level. Heatstroke begins when a pet’s core body temperature rises to around 105 degrees Fahrenheit.
Causes of Heat Stress and Heat Stroke
Dogs and cats have sweat glands located in their paws, but these are insufficient for regulating their body temperature. Instead, dogs pant when they are hot to circulate air throughout their bodies. Cats will often combat the heat by licking their coats. This produces a cooling effect as saliva evaporates from their fur.
Pets are at risk of heat stress and heat stroke when they are no longer able to regulate their body temperature. This usually occurs when a pet’s body overheats after exercise or exposure to excessively hot or humid environments.
Other risk factors for heat stress and heat stroke include obesity and underlying health conditions such as respiratory illnesses. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds and very young or old pets are also more susceptible to heat-related illnesses.
Symptoms of Heat Stress and Heat Stroke
The following are some of the most common symptoms of heat stress and heat stroke in pets.
- Panting
- Drooling
- Lethargy
- Rapid breathing
- Redness of the mouth and gums
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Disorientation
- Collapse
If your pet shows symptoms of heat stress or heat stroke, it is important to take immediate measures to lower their body temperature. First, move your pet to a cool indoor environment and provide them with fresh drinking water. Next, wrap your pet in a wet blanket or spray them with water to cool them down. Never immerse your pet in cold water as this can lead to shock.
After cooling your pet at home, please visit your veterinarian as soon as possible to minimize the risk of serious health complications developing.
Diagnosis of Heat Stress and Heat Stroke
Your veterinarian will check your pet’s body temperature and ask you about their recent activities. Usually, this will be enough to reach a conclusive diagnosis of heat stress or heat stroke. In some cases, additional tests such as blood work or urinalysis may be performed to rule out other underlying causes of your pet’s symptoms.
Treatment of Heat Stress and Heat Stroke
Your veterinarian will continue the cooling process while closely monitoring your pet’s condition. Fluids will usually be given intravenously to decrease body temperature and reduce dehydration. If your pet is suffering from heatstroke, they may need to be hospitalized while they recover. Medications may also be prescribed to alleviate your pet’s symptoms and aid the recovery process.
Prevention of Heat Stress and Heat Stroke
There are several steps you can take to protect your pet from heat stress and heat stroke. Make sure to restrict exercise during warm weather. It’s a good idea to take your pet for walks in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are at their lowest.
Please remember never to leave your pet unattended in a parked car. Temperatures inside cars can rise to dangerous levels, even on relatively cool days. It’s also very important to give your pet access to fresh drinking water to keep them hydrated and help regulate their body temperature. When the weather is especially hot, it can be helpful to cool your pet down with a hose or spray bottle filled with water.
Finally, if your pet displays symptoms of heat stress or heat stroke, please take appropriate measures to lower their body temperature at home and visit your veterinarian as soon as possible
