Keep Cool and Carry On: How to Protect Your Pets from Heatstroke

Ensure your beloved cat or dog stays as cool as a cucumber in hot weather by following these simple tips.

When you’re having fun in the sun this summer, don’t forget to spare a thought for your pets.

While cats and dogs love to doze off in a sunny corner of a room or garden, they can get too much of a good thing.

Animals are less able to regulate their body temperature than humans.

This means they’re more susceptible to heatstroke, a condition that at its worst can be life-threatening.

Be especially careful if your pet is very young or old, has thick fur or has an underlying health condition. Flat-faced dog breeds are also at a greater risk of heatstroke.

To keep your pets happy and healthy when the mercury rises (and to save yourself an unnecessary trip to the vet), take these precautions.

Water

No doubt you already provide water for your pet, but now’s the time to up the H₂O provision.

Place a few extra bowls of cool water inside and outside your home for your cat or dog.

You can also run a towel under cold water, wring out the excess liquid and place it on the ground for your pet to lie on.

Shade

If you have a garden or courtyard, make sure there are plenty of shady nooks where your pet can take respite from the heat.

You can also buy a range of pop-up shelters for cats and dogs, or make one yourself.

Drape a large towel or sheet over a table or chair and tuck the corners of the fabric under the legs so that it can’t blow away.

Add a bowl of water and – voila! – your pet has their very own hydration station.

Observe

As pets can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell, it’s essential to watch their body language and behaviour.

The early signs of heatstroke include tiredness, excessive panting (in dogs) and red gums.

Other, more serious, indications include vomiting, diarrhoea, severe weakness, seizures or collapse.

What to do if you have concerns

The Royal Veterinary College recommends a “cool first, transport second” approach if your pet shows signs of heatstroke.

Immediately move your pet to a cool place, ideally near a fan, and offer them sips of water. You could also try pouring cool (but not ice-cold) water over them. Once you’ve taken these steps, call your vet straight away.