First Aid for Heatstroke: Steps to Take When Your Pet Is Overheating

Hyperthermia/Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition and requires immediate medical intervention. During the hot summer months, animals become very susceptible to overheating due to their poor ability to regulate their temperature. Unlike humans, animals only have sweat glands in their paw pads, and can result to panting as a way to cool their body down. The risk of multiple organ failure and impending death can become an immediate risk if the internal temperature of an animal severely exceeds normal range.
 

What Causes Pet Heatstroke

Even in cool weather, the number one leading cause of heatstroke is leaving an animal in a vehicle with poor ventilation.
 

Other causes of heatstroke can include, but is not limited to:
 

• Leaving an animal in a small, enclosed area with poor ventilation.

  • This includes campers, RVs, and housing units.

• Being left outside without proper shade or water.

• Excessive exercise.

Pets Susceptible to Heatstroke

All pets are prone to hyperthermia, although there are some factors that can make pets more susceptible than others.
 

This can include, but is not limited to:
 

• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) cats and dogs.

  • Dogs: Bulldog, pug, boxer, shih tzu, mastiff.

  • Cats: Persian, Himalayan, Burmese

• Obesity

• Any pre-existing health conditions related to airway, lungs, or heart.

• Fever

Warning Signs of Heatstroke

• Panting, which can become distressed as the condition worsens.

• Agitation, pacing, or restlessness.

• Hypersalivation/Excessive drooling.

• Increased heart rate.

• Vomiting and/or diarrhea.

• Injected (red) mucus membranes: gums, inside of the cheek, eye lids.
   

During the advanced stages of heatstroke, a pet may appear lethargic and confused. This condition may progress to seizures, sudden collapse, hemorrhagic (bloody) diarrhea, and blood clotting disorders.
 

First Aid for Heatstroke in Pets

If there is a concern that a pet may be overheating, here are some things to do while contacting your local veterinarian:
 

• Take the pet to a cool, well-ventilated, or shaded area.

• Use lukewarm water to pour over the pet.

  • Refrain from using ice cold water, as it can cause vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and cause the pet to go into shock.

• Pour 70% alcohol on paw pads.

• Use a fan on high for a continuous flow of air.

• Place wrapped icepacks on legs and neck.
   

If a pet has stopped panting or lost consciousness, continue aggressive cooling, and transport the pet to the nearest veterinarian immediately.
 

Take Your Pet to the Veterinarian

If your pet is suffering from heatstroke, the veterinarian may recommend hospitalization for continued monitoring, diagnostics, and treatments. Prompt treatment can reduce the risk of serious complications.
 

Always keep your pet comfortable and well-hydrated, especially during hot days. Limit exercise on extreme weather days and carry water on walks. Make sure to never leave your pet alone in a vehicle, even if the air-conditioner is left on.
 

For more on the steps to take when your pet is overheating, visit Waco Animal Emergency Clinic. Our office is in Waco, Texas. Call (254) 752-6100 to speak to a representative today.