Dog and Cat Heatstroke Symptoms

Pet overheating and heatstroke signs

Mild signs that may suggest your pet is getting hot:

o   Agitation or restlessness
o   Constant panting
o   Excessive thirst
o   Less responsive behaviour
o   Excessive grooming (cats)
o   Sweaty feet (more so in cats)
 

Action to take:

o   Cease activity and get them rested

o   Cool them down –

• spraying or lightly wetting with cool water (not iced)

• wetting their paws and ears

• laying them on a cooling mat

• providing a fan or air-conditioned environment

o   Offer them fresh cool water 

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Dog heat stroke signs

*Emergency*

If you are worried your pet may be overheating due to hot weather, intense exercise, or others, the presence of any of the following may indicate a need to bring your pet to the vet as soon as possible.

• Very fast, heavy, or exaggerated panting

• Inability or unwillingness to move

• Excessive drooling or salivation

• Increased pulse and heart rate

• Dark-coloured (red/purple) or very pale gums or tongue

• Vomiting or Diarrhoea

• Mental dullness or lack of responsiveness

• Elevated rectal temperature of 40ºC and up (if a thermometer is available)

• Staggering, uncoordinated movement, weakness or collapse

• Seizures

• Unconsciousness

Even if not displaying any of these signs, please contact your vet if you are worried.

Action to take:

1.      On your way to your vet, call them to inform them about the situation, so they will be expecting you.

2.     Your vet may suggest ways to cool your pet down on your way there, such as using air conditioning in the car or lightly wetting your pet’s body.

3.     If your pet is able to drink, offer her or him water.