With excessive heat in the forecast for Katy, TX, it is essential for all pet owners to know the signs of heat stress in their pets and what steps to take to help pets stay cool and hydrated. When it comes to heat safety, prevention is best, so be sure to provide a cool place for your pets to relax and adjust their routines to limit outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Continue reading for a closer look at hot weather safety tips and heat stress symptoms to know for every pet.
Cats and Dogs
Cats and dogs both show similar symptoms when they are experiencing heatstroke, including drooling, rapid breathing, lethargy, stumbling and muscle weakness, confusion, vomiting, and loss of appetite. To prevent heat-related illnesses in your four-legged friends, be sure to keep your home well ventilated and provide plenty of shade during outdoor time. Avoid letting outdoor cats roam during the hottest days of the year.
Cats may also need some extra motivation to stay hydrated, as they can be finicky with their water. Make sure they always have a few sources of fresh, clean water throughout the home. You might also entice them with ice cubes or a few drops of liquid from a can of tuna (make sure it’s packed in water) for some added flavor. Serving wet food instead of dry can also be helpful for hydration.
Rabbits and Small Mammals
Rabbits can overheat when temperatures are above 80 degrees, so be sure that they remain indoors on hot days in a well-ventilated area. When experiencing heatstroke, rabbits and other small mammals may have red or hot ears, rapid breathing, excessive drooling, wetness around the nose, or confusion and disorientation. Just like cats and dogs, rabbits need plenty of fresh water, and they may also enjoy vegetables with high water content like kale and other leafy greens, cucumbers, and pumpkin. You can also spray veggies with a little water to add even more hydration.
If you notice signs of heat stress in your rabbit, move them to a cool, air-conditioned area, wet their ears with cool (not cold) water, and monitor them closely while you seek out immediate veterinary care.
Reptiles
Reptiles may love their heat lamps and hot rocks, but they should be closely monitored to ensure they don’t overheat. Reptiles are prone to overheating because they cannot regulate their body temperature internally. Signs of hyperthermia, or heatstroke, in reptiles include uncoordinated movements, rapid and open-mouthed breathing, darkening of the skin, and a loss of appetite. When treating a reptile for heat illness, do not change their temperature suddenly by submerging them in cold water or ice, as this can send them into shock. Instead, move them to a cooler location and mist them with lukewarm water to lower their body temperature gradually.
For the veterinary care your pet needs in every season, schedule a visit to All Pets Animal Hospital. With convenient online booking, we make it easy to access the care your pet needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
