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The risk of overheating in pets increases significantly in summer. Dogs, rabbits and rodents are especially susceptible. Cats manage better, but they too can get into trouble. In this blog, we explain how common overheating is, how to recognise it, what to do, and what not to do.
Overheating occurs regularly in dogs and is reported mainly in the summer months. It is rarer in cats, they instinctively protect themselves from heat by seeking rest, shade and cool places.
In rabbits and rodents, overheating is especially dangerous. They have few ways to get rid of their heat and are often in enclosed spaces where it quickly gets too hot.
Overheating is more than just 'being hot'. Pay attention to these signs:
Dogs:
0 Panting, drooling or even vomiting
0 Warm ears and pads
0 Red mucous membranes (mouth, eyes)
0 Drowsiness, not wanting to move
0 Apathetic or confused behaviour
Cats:
0 Yawning, rapid breathing with open mouth (note: cats pant normally not!)
0 Restlessness or, on the contrary, extremely quiet behaviour
0 Feeling warm, especially ears and abdomen
0 Lying flat on cold ground
Rabbits and rodents:
0 Rapid breathing, lying flat
0 Shivering or vibrating
0 Red or blue ears (in rabbits)
0 Less appetite or no response anymore
Acting quickly is crucial. But beware: not everything that seems 'logical' is also sensible.
✔️ What you well should do:
o Move the animal to a cool place - never put your pet in full sun or a hot room. Move to a shady spot or indoors with air conditioning or a fan.
o Cool with running water (dogs and rabbits) - use lukewarm running water on the belly, groin and paws. This washes away the heat without causing shock. Pour water gently or use a wet sponge/cloth.
o Use a fan or air conditioner - aim it at the head and belly (not the eyes) to encourage evaporation.
o Important with rabbits and rodents - wrap a cool bottle of water in a towel and place it in the hutch. Or use a special cooling stone. Provide shade and good ventilation.
Note: Never place a wet towel over the entire body. This actually traps heat. So cool focused, belly and legs are most effective.
❌ What you not should do:
o Do not use ice-cold water - this can cause shock or cardiac arrest
o Do not use a very wet towel - this actually traps heat
o Don't go straight to the vet in a hot car - cool on site first
o Change drinking water several times a day - hot water is often ignored
o Test the asphalt - too hot for your hand is too hot for their paws
o Use sunscreen on bald or white animals - especially for animals, without zinc oxide
o Beware of medication - some drugs increase the risk of overheating
o Make cooling snacks or popsicles - such as frozen kibble or wet food
o Move pens to shade - avoid too hot a pen
o Check daytime behaviour - sluggishness, panting or restlessness? Act immediately!
o Give cats access to cool places - such as bathrooms or tiles
o Pay special attention to young, old or short-snouted animals - they overheat faster
In doubt? Always call the vet with these symptoms:
o Persistent drowsiness or unconsciousness
o Vomiting or diarrhoea (especially if bloody)
o Convulsions or disorientation
o Bluish tongue or gums
Because prevention is better than cure, here are a few prevention tips:
o Do not leave animals in the car, not even "just for a moment"
o Provide shade, fresh air and clean drinking water
o Use cooling mats or frozen bottles wrapped in a towel
o Trim long-haired animals promptly, especially belly shaving can help
o Avoid walking or playing in the full sun, especially between 11am and 4pm
o Check pens regularly for temperature and ventilation
Overheating is an acute problem that can affect any pet, especially in summer. By recognising signs early and acting correctly, you can save lives!
In doubt? Then always call the vet. Better once too many than too late.
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