Heatstroke in cats and dogs: signs and remedies

Rising temperatures are making heatstroke in pets even more common. Both cats and dogs can succumb to heatstroke and present similar signs. However, in cats, these symptoms may be more subtle, so make sure you pay close attention. Here is what to look out for: 

Changes in their behaviour

• Agitation and restlessness — you may notice that your cat is pacing 
• Confusion and delirium
• Lying down a lot

Physical changes

• A bright red tongue and/or pale gums
• Diarrhoea sometimes tinged with blood
• Difficulty breathing 
• Dizziness and staggering
• Drooling and salivating
• Increased heart rate
• Panting that increases as the heatstroke worsens
• Muscle tremors
• Very little or no urination
• Vomiting
• Weakness and fatigue

In severe cases, your cat or dog may also:

• Collapse
• Have seizures
• Fall into a coma

What to do if your pet has heatstroke

Keep a close eye out for the above signs and if you think your pet is suffering from heatstroke, immediately take them somewhere cooler, spray them with cool water and fan them. You can also wet the area around your pet to aid cooling. 

However, do not allow your pet to drink too large a volume of water in one go. This can cause bloat, where the stomach becomes distended and rotated due to too much gas entering it — this is a life-threatening condition. Even if it looks like your pet is recovering from heatstroke, it is important to take them to a vet to get checked out. With our new veterinary clinic conveniently located in Dubai Marina, it is even easier to see one of our experienced vets.