As summer temperatures rise, remember that your pet feels the heat as much as you do, if not more. Pets can struggle to keep cool, leading to discomfort and serious health risks. Our team at Cedar Creek Pet Hospital shares what you need to know to keep your pet safe and comfortable during hot weather.

Heat risks for pets

Like people, pets are susceptible to heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Pets don’t sweat through their skin like people do. They cool off through panting and through sweat glands in their paws. While panting can help reduce body temperature, the function is not as effective as sweating, which means pets can overheat quickly, especially during intense physical activity or prolonged sun exposure. Any pet can develop heat-related problems, but some pets are at higher risk for heat exhaustion and heatstroke, including:

  • Brachycephalic breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats
  • Pets with chronic illnesses such as heart disease
  • Pets with breathing problems such as laryngeal paralysis and collapsing trachea
  • Overweight pets

Overheating signs in pets

Cats’ and dogs’ normal temperature runs between 100 and 102.5 degrees, and heatstroke is defined as a severe body temperature elevation above 104.5. If a pet’s body temperature reaches 106 degrees, their organs begin to fail, so cooling measures must be taken when their temperature rises to 103 or above. Pets’ heat exhaustion and heatstroke signs may include:

  • Excessive panting
  • High heart rate
  • Wide, flattened tongue
  • Excessive drooling
  • Unusual gum color (e.g., blue, grey, purple)
  • Mental dullness
  • Lethargy
  • Weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Incoordination
  • Collapse
  • Seizures
  • Unconsciousness

Ways to keep your pet cool 

When you venture out with your four-legged friend to enjoy the summer sun, you’ll need to take precautions so they stay safe and healthy. Follow these tips to help your pet stay cool and comfortable in the heat:

  • Provide fresh water — When pets are properly hydrated, their bodies can regulate temperature more effectively. Dehydration impairs their ability to cool down, making them more susceptible to heat stress and heatstroke. Place several water bowls around your home and yard, ensuring they’re in shaded, cool areas. Refill water bowls frequently, and add ice cubes to the water bowl to keep the water cool longer.
  • Look for shade — Ensure your pet always has access to shade outdoors. Trees provide natural shade, but if your yard does not have large, established trees, create a shady spot for your pet with shade sails or a pergola.
  • Exercise your pet during cooler times of day — Your pet’s daily walk schedule should be based on the outside temperature. Walk during the cooler early mornings and late evenings and avoid the midday heat on extremely hot days.
  • Leave your pet home — Even mild days can be dangerous to your pet if you leave them unattended in a parked vehicle, as temperatures can rise to deadly levels within a short period. Your pet may love car rides, but the safest place for them on a hot day is at home with the air conditioning cranked.

By taking proactive measures and recognizing pets’ heat stress signs, you can ensure your furry friend stays healthy and happy during the hot summer months. However, if you think your pet may have scorched heat exhaustion or any other heat-related conditions, contact our Cedar Creek Pet Hospital team for support.