Heatstroke: keeping pets safe in the heat

Dogs and cats cool down mainly by panting, which does not work well in hot, humid weather. Heatstroke can become life-threatening within minutes.

Signs of heatstroke

• heavy, noisy panting and thick drooling
• bright red or very pale gums
• weakness, wobbling or collapse
• vomiting or diarrhoea
• confusion or not responding

Flat-faced breeds such as shih tzus, pugs, bulldogs and persian cats, older pets, overweight pets and pets with heart problems are at the highest risk.

What to do at once

• Move your pet into the shade or an air-conditioned room.
• Cool with cool, not ice-cold, water, especially the belly, paws and neck, and use a fan.
• Offer small sips of water, but do not force it.
• Then come in straight away, even if your pet seems to recover. Heatstroke can damage organs that only show problems hours later.

Prevention

• Walk early in the morning or in the evening, never at midday.
• Never leave a pet in a parked car, even with the windows open.
• Always leave shade and fresh water, and check that the water bowl is not in the sun.