Heat Stroke in Dogs & Cats: Prevent Your Pet from Overheating
As the sun shines bright and temperatures rise in Brooklyn, NY, it’s important to remember that our furry friends don’t always have the ability to cool down as effectively as us humans. We at Clinton Hill Animal Clinic are familiar with the dangers that the hot summer weather can cause. Not only can it lead to severe health problems that require a trip to a veterinarian near you but it can also be fatal. It can be important to know the signs and causes of heat stroke, as well as how to prevent it.
Most Common Causes of Heat Stroke in Pets
Here is a list of things that can cause your pet to have heat stroke:
- High Temperatures
- Overexertion
- Lack of Shade and Water
Signs of Heat Stroke
Recognizing the signs of heat stroke are more than just fun pet tips. It could mean the difference in your pet staying healthy or them succumbing to the extreme weather.
- Rapid panting and difficulty breathing
- Excessive drooling or thick saliva
- Vomiting
- Weakness, stumbling, or collapsing
- Unresponsiveness or loss of consciousness
Preventing Heat Stroke
The following pet tips might go a long way to help ensure your dog or cat is safe no matter what the temperature on the thermostat says.
- Limit Outdoor Activities: This is especially important during extremely hot weather. The best time for your pet to go outside is during the coolest parts of the day, which are early morning and late evening.
- Provide Shade and Water: Always make sure your pet has access to shade whenever they are outside when it is hot out. They will also need clean, cool water.
- Never Leave Pets in Cars: Do not leave your pets in your vehicle. Even if you have the windows cracked, the temperature inside the vehicle can quickly rise to lethal levels.
- Monitor the Humidity: While temperatures often get the blame for heat stroke, high levels of humidity can also take its toll on your pet since it is harder for your furry friend to cool himself through panting.
- Know Your Breed: Certain breeds of dogs and cats are more susceptible to heat stroke than others. Seek immediate help if you suspect your pet is experiencing heat stroke. Move him to a cool, shaded area, and offer him towels damped with cool water. You should also contact our veterinarian. Heat stroke can quickly lead to life-threatening complications, such as organ failure.
Get Pet Tips from Our Veterinarian about Heat Stroke
For more information about heat stroke in Brooklyn, NY, or to set up an appointment with our veterinarian, contact us at Clinton Hill Animal Clinic. Call us at (718) 623-3999 for help from our “veterinarian near me.”