As temperatures rise, it’s important to think of the wellbeing of our pets as well as ourselves. Heatstroke is a condition caused by a high temperature not related to a fever. It occurs when animals are no longer able to reduce their temperature with their usual cooling measures, for example panting or moving to a cool shaded place. It is vital to monitor your pets during extreme heat and look out for any signs of heatstroke:
- Lethargy and weakness
- Restlessness
- Unsteadiness on their feet or confusion
- Panting or attempts to pant
- Faster breathing
- Increased heart rate
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Collapse
Heatstroke can be fatal, so it’s important to act quickly if you suspect they may have been affected. Administer first aid at home and then call a vet as soon as possible, this is an emergency.
- Move your pet inside if possible or to a cooler, shaded area. If available, a fan will help increase heat loss.
- Pour or spray tepid/cool water over their body, avoiding the head area so none is accidentally inhaled. Do not use freezing water or ice as this may cause them to go into shock.
- For smaller animals like rabbits, gently wipe them down with a cool cloth rather than pouring water over them.
- Allow them to drink small amounts of cool water.
- One they are stable enough to be moved, transfer them to your vet as soon as possible.
Any animal suffering heat stroke needs to be seen by a vet, even if it looks like they are recovering.
How to avoid heatstroke
Water
Make sure pets have access to plenty of fresh, cool water. For cats and dogs you can also add ice cubes to cool them down even further. Be sure to check small animals water bottles twice a day and ensure they are kept in the shade.
Shade
Small animal enclosures should be moved to areas out of direct sunlight, moving them to a cooler shed or unused garage may be beneficial. Make sure dogs and cats have access to a nice cool room indoors or plenty of shade in the garden.
Grooming
Long haired pet especially should be groomed regularly to remove excess fur and any areas of matting. Certain breeds are ‘double coated’, for example, Huskies, and should never be shaved except when medically required, so before cutting their hair, make sure to check whether they fall into this category.
Keep them indoors
If you are able, keep your cat indoors during the hottest hours of the day. Dogs should be walked only in the cool early mornings or late evenings.
Can I give my dog ice cubes in the heat?
Ice cubes are fine to give to your pooch as a treat on a hot day. A few ice cubes dropped in their water bowl or one to bat around in the garden (and most likely drop in a flower bed!) can help to keep them cool.
One thing to watch out for is the size of ice cube you give – a large ice cube may cause a choking hazard for a smaller dog. Opt for smaller cubes or some nice shaved ice instead!
You can also try some alternatives – Kong toys are great if filled with frozen treats, a low sodium stock or xylitol free peanut butter frozen in an ice cube mold or even a frozen apple or carrot slice. There are even freeze at home doggy lollipops available in pet shops now!
Much like some humans, dogs can enjoy chomping on an ice cube. Just make sure the cube is not too large or hard and keep it as a rare treat so as to avoid damage to their teeth.
It’s a commonly spread myth that ice cubes can cause canine bloat (a condition which occurs when the stomach becomes dilated and filled with gas, which then causes the stomach to twist), there is no link between the two.
Call us on 01435 864422 if you believe your pet is showing any signs of heatstroke.