Your pets may feel the heat if the outdoors is too hot.Temperatures are soaring across the country, especially in the Pacific Northwest. Excessive heat warnings in areas not accustomed to such scorching conditions could be putting your cat and dog at risk for heat-related illness.Humans have millions of sweat glands that help regulate temperature, but pets only have a handful.It is important to recognize signs of heat exhaustion in pets. Heatstroke can quickly worsen if they are not treated immediately. Heatstroke, if left untreated can cause brain swelling, kidney failure and intestinal bleeding.What is heatstroke in dogs?Heatstroke is also known for heat exhaustion in pets. This is when the furry body reaches temperatures above normal. Temperatures above 105° Fahrenheit can cause heatstroke in both cats and dogs. This could lead to death.According to the American Animal Hospital Association, heatstroke can happen when pets are exposed to extreme heat.What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?Both cats and dogs show the same signs of heat exhaustion: excessive panting, drooling and difficulty breathing.Experts say that if your pet is acting restless outside while trying to find a comfortable spot to relax, it may be time to bring them inside.Cats and dogs will often pant more to cool off than dogs, but cats will also sweat more to cool themselves down. Felines will also tend to groom excessively in an effort to lower their body temperature using their saliva.Heatstroke is more likely in pets with higher heat riskHeat exhaustion is a risk for all pets, but some animals are more vulnerable than others.Continue the storyBulldogs and Persian cats with short noses are more likely to overheat than other pets. This is because they don't have the ability to release heat through panting as well as long-nosed pets. Experts say that cats and dogs who are overweight, older, or have heart disease or lung disease may also be at higher risk.Heat-related illnesses are more common in animals with thick fur.According to the AAHA, these pets shouldn't be left out in the heat and should be kept indoors with air conditioners during the summer.How to help pets suffering from heat exhaustionExperts recommend that you immediately transport your pet to a cool place and allow them to drink room temperature water. To lower their temperature, you can spray water on them or use a fan.University of California Davis veterinarians warn against trying to cool pets too fast. The cooling process can be slowed down by using cold or icewater.Avoid covering pets with towels or blankets that are too wet. This can trap heat and prevent them from radiating heat.You can stop cooling your pet's body when it reaches 103 degrees Fahrenheit. If your pet's condition does not improve within 10 minutes, it is time to contact the nearest veterinarian.Hot surfaces are important!Humans have shoes to protect themselves from hot surfaces and sidewalks, but pets don't. Experts recommend a quick test to determine if your pet is safe.According to VetsNow, pet owners should hold their hand on a surface that is walkable for seven seconds. If it becomes difficult to hold the hand down, it is too hot for the pet to walk on.Hot surfaces can not only burn pet paw pads but can also heat pets faster when they are laid on. Experts recommend walking your pet on grass, not pavement. They also suggest going outside in the morning or late afternoon to cool off.To provide some relief from the heat, you can trim the hair of your pet's summer fur, but do not shave them. Their coats can help protect them from sunburn and overheating, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty.
