Preparing Your Pet For The Heat
Even here in the UK, where the weather is somewhat unpredictable, the heat can prove a problem for pets in the summer months.
It’s important to know how to keep your pet cool, because overheating can lead to exhaustion, dehydration and heatstroke.
Heatstroke is often fatal and can kill rapidly, so make sure you know the signs. General signs include:
- Panting
- Drooling
- Lethargy
- Disorientation
- Seizures
- Increased heart rate
- Loss of consciousness in extreme circumstances
- Pets may show reddening or warmness of the ears, this can be particularly evident in rabbits
- Dogs and cats may show very red gums/tongues
- Dogs may vomit, and could have blood in their vomit or stools
If your pet starts to show signs of heatstroke please contact your local vet.
Dogs
Most dogs are sensible in the heat, but remember that they can easily overheat when playing games and running, so be careful when playing games or exercising them. To be safe, it is best to walk your dog during the cooler mornings and evening hours in the summer months. This will also avoid sore paws from walking on hot tarmac.
Cats
Originating from the desert, cats are generally very comfortable in the heat and can often be found stretched out sunbathing. When it gets hot in the summer months, cats mainly cool down by sleeping and resting more, in cool shady spots.
Rabbits
Just like cats and dogs, rabbits can suffer from heatstroke. Providing the opportunity for them to stay cool is simple, such as providing shady spaces, keeping long coats groomed, providing plenty of fresh water with ice and using cooling sprays.
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