Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats - How to Keep Your Pet Safe During the Summer!

Summer is a brilliant time to get out and about with your pets, but it’s also when they’re most at risk of overheating. Dogs and cats can’t cool down as easily as we can, so it’s important to know how to keep them safe when the temperature rises. Here’s what every pet owner should know, plus some handy products that can make a real difference.

Why Are Some Pets More at Risk?

Some dogs and cats are more likely to struggle in the heat. This includes flat-faced breeds (like pugs and bulldogs), pets with thick or long coats, older animals, puppies and kittens, and those carrying a bit of extra weight. If your pet has heart or breathing problems, they’ll need extra care too.

What Can Cause Overheating?

It doesn’t have to be a heatwave for pets to get too hot. Overdoing it on a warm day, being left somewhere stuffy (like a car or conservatory), or even just lying in the sun for too long can all lead to trouble. Always keep an eye on your pet and make sure they have options to cool off.

Signs Your Pet Might Be Overheating

Spotting the early signs of heatstroke in dogs (and cats) can make all the difference. Watch out for:

• Heavy or noisy panting

• Restlessness or pacing

• Drooling more than usual

• Bright red gums or tongue

• Fast heartbeat

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

If things get worse, your pet might seem weak, confused, or even collapse. In severe cases, they could have a seizure. If you notice any of these, act quickly.

What To Do If Your Pet Overheats

If you think your pet is getting too hot, don’t wait - act straight away:

• Move them to a cool, breezy spot or use a fan if you have one.

• Offer small amounts of water, but don’t force them to drink.

• Gently pour cool (not icy) water over them or use a damp towel. For older pets or those with health issues, a fan and cool water together can help.

• Avoid using ice-cold water, as it can make things worse.

• Once you’ve started cooling your pet, call your vet for advice - even if they seem to perk up, as problems can develop later.

Having a pet first-aid kit handy, like the Charlie the Vet Pet First-Aid Kit which comes with an ice pack, can be a real help in these situations when out and about. It’s always better to be prepared!

How to Prevent Heatstroke

A few simple steps can help your pet stay cool and comfortable all summer:

• Make sure there’s always a shady, cool spot for your pet to relax, both indoors and outside.

• Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening, when it’s cooler.

• Take water with you on walks and offer regular drinks.

• Check the pavement with your hand - if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws!

• Pop a few ice cubes in their water bowl to keep it cool -but be mindful of the size of the cubes to prevent choking hazards

• Regular grooming helps, especially for pets with thick coats.

• Never leave pets in cars or hot rooms, even for a short time.  Below is a chart showing how quickly the temperatures change in the car based on the temperatures outside.

Don’t Forget Paws and Sun Safety

Hot pavements can burn sensitive paws, so stick to grassy areas or walk when it’s cooler. After walks, Animology Paws & Nose Balm is a gentle way to soothe and protect your dog’s feet. We’ve found it’s a must-have for summer strolls.

Some pets, especially those with light fur, can get sunburnt on their noses and ears. Use a pet-safe sunscreen and keep them indoors during the hottest part of the day.

Final Thought:

A little planning goes a long way. By knowing what to look for and making a few simple changes, you can help your pet enjoy a safe, happy summer - no matter how hot it gets!