Whilst heatstroke is a particular risk during summer, some pet owners are sadly unaware of the fact that it doesn’t have to be particularly hot for their pet to suffer from this issue.

Here’s how to help recognise and avoid heatstroke in your pet.

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke is the most severe stage of hyperthermia (abnormally elevated body temperature), occurring once a pet’s core body temperature reaches 41.1 degrees Celsius or higher.

This elevated temperature causes serious (and in some cases, fatal) damage to the cells of the brain and other organs, with the severity of the pet’s unwellness depending on how high their temperature gets and for how long.

What are the symptoms of heat stroke?

In the earlier stages of hyperthermia (heat stress and heat exhaustion), pets will pant and drink more and will begin to show signs of weakness.

Pets with heatstroke will usually show symptoms such as:

• Heavy panting
• Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
• Changes in gum colour (usually to a darker red or purplish-blue colour)
• Excessive drooling
• Weakness, wobbliness, and lethargy, which can progress to unconsciousness
• Seizures

What should you do if your pet is showing signs of hyperthermia?

If you suspect early hyperthermia in your pet (heat stress), it’s recommended to soak them to the skin with cool (not cold) water, place them in front of a fan or in air-conditioning, offer them water to drink, and monitor them closely.

However, if your pet is showing weakness or any other symptoms that could be associated with more severe heat exhaustion or heatstroke, we would strongly advise wetting them down as above, and then driving them (in a cool, air-conditioned vehicle) for an urgent veterinary assessment.

How can I help protect my pet from heatstroke?

Pets are most prone to heatstroke when they:

• Are left unattended in a vehicle, as internal vehicle temperatures can rise rapidly even on mild days
• Have inadequate shade, ventilation, or water in warmer weather
• Are exercised on a warm or humid day
• Are a flat-faced or thick-coated breed
• Have a pre-existing airway or heart condition
• Are very old or very young

For more information on protecting your pet from heatstroke, consult our knowledgeable team.