When the weather is warm, pet parents tend to spend more time outdoors with their pets. Heat related deaths can occur suddenly and are tragic, yet they are preventable if you become familiar with the symptoms. Heat stroke occurs when your pet’s body is unable to maintain their body temperature in a safe range. A normal body temperature for cats and dogs ranges between 100°F and 102.5°F. Moderate heatstroke occurs when the body temperature rises to between 104°F and 106°F. Severe heatstroke can occur when the body temperature exceeds 106°F.
Panting
Dogs use panting as the primary method for cooling down. Excessive panting, even while resting, may indicate that your pet is overheated. You may also see thick saliva and a bright red tongue, as well as pale or red gums. Cats do not pant under normal circumstances.
Lethargy
A pet developing heatstroke will be lethargic (sluggish) and weak. It may begin to become ataxic (walking with a wobbly or drunken gait). This occurs when the increased body temperature affects the brain, which results in neurologic deficits and depression. If the body temperature exceeds 106°F, you may see collapse.
Shock
As the body tries to compensate or protect itself from a high body temperature, it may decrease blood flow to major organs. This is when shock sets in. The result may cause collapse and organ damage.
Other Symptoms
Additional symptoms may include: vomiting, diarrhea, rapid heart rate, cardiac arrhythmias, tremors, seizures, petechiae (small, pinpoint bleeding), and unresponsiveness. Many other diseases and illnesses share these symptoms; thus it is important to be familiar with your pet’s behaviors and medical condition.
How to Treat Heat Stroke in Pets
If you notice any of these symptoms, immediately bring your pet indoors or into the shade. A rectal thermometer and a sterile lubricant can be used to take the temperature. If the temperature is 105°F or higher, immediately seek veterinary attention. Begin gradual cooling using lukewarm water. Do not use cold water, as this will drop the body temperature too rapidly, which may cause further complications. Increase airflow using a fan to maximize cooling. Ice packs wrapped in dishtowels or a bag of frozen vegetables can be placed between the hind limbs, in armpits or on the back of the neck. Monitor the body temperature rectally every 5 minutes until it reaches 103°F, then discontinue cooling and seek veterinary attention. Your veterinarian will continue to monitor for complications (blood clotting function, organ damage, neurologic damage, etc.) and may administer IV fluids and oxygen.
Things to Keep in Mind
Your pet is at greater risk of heat stroke if it has preexisting respiratory disease, is obese, is a brachycephalic breed (a breed with a flat face, such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats, etc.), has suffered heat stroke previously, is very old or very young, or is unaccustomed to a hot/humid climate. Pets that are inadvertently or intentionally left in cars are also at risk of heat stroke. The temperature in a closed automobile can quickly reach temperatures as high as 140°F. This is deadly to any pet left inside. If you see a pet inside a closed automobile, contact the police or local authorities immediately.
Early recognition of the signs of heat stroke is vital to initiate treatment and achieve a positive outcome. Heat stroke is not always caused by weather or exertion. It can occur indoors in a closed room or even in a grooming cage, such as a cage dryer.
Preventing Heat Stroke in Pets
Following some general guidelines can help to prevent heat stroke:
- Never leave your pet in a closed automobile or closed room without moving airflow at home.
- Always provide plenty of fresh, cool water especially on hot days.
- Provide shade or a means to escape direct sunlight if your pet spends time outdoors.
- Avoid exertion or exercise during the hottest part of the day.
Always seek veterinary attention if you are concerned about your pet. Consider enrolling in a veterinary first aid course to learn techniques that could one day save the life of your pet.