Paws 4 Safety: Some pets just can't take the heat

BY KIM BRADLEY

Summer is in full swing, and across much of the country, temperatures are climbing into the upper 90s and even triple digits, With the heat index even higher. These extreme temperatures have been hard on people and pets alike. Some breeds are at an even greater risk of heat-related illness than others simply because of the way they’re built. Most pet owners have heard that hot weather can be especially dangerous for flat-faced dogs such as Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers and Shih Tzus. But here's something many people don't realize: some cats face those same risks.

Veterinarians use the term brachycephalic to describe breeds with shortened noses and flatter faces. While that word is commonly associated with dogs, it also applies to several cat breeds, including Persians, Himalayans and Exotic Shorthairs. Their adorable facial features may make them instantly recognizable, but they can also make it more difficult to breathe and regulate body temperature during hot weather. While we already know that dogs and cats cool themselves very differently than people, they also cool down differently from each other. Both have a small number of sweat glands located primarily in their paw pads; dogs rely heavily on panting to release body heat.

Cats, on the other hand, are less likely to pant and often help regulate their body temperature through grooming, as saliva evaporating from their coat provides a cooling effect. Because panting is uncommon in cats, an open mouth, panting cat should be taken seriously. A panting cat is not "just hot," it's a warning sign. Don’t assume this is normal, it is NOT! This is SERIOUS, and your vet should be contacted immediately!

Regardless of species, there are several additional signs every pet owner should watch for. Rapid or noisy breathing, excessive drooling, weakness, bright red gums, vomiting, stumbling, or collapse may all indicate your pet is overheating. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your pet to a cool area immediately, offer small amounts of cool—not ice-cold—water if they are alert, and contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.  

If you suspect your pet is suffering from a heat-related emergency, call your veterinarian while you're on your way whenever it's safe to do so. That phone call can save valuable time. First, your veterinarian may be able to provide immediate instructions that could help your pet before you arrive. Second, it alerts the veterinary team that you're on the way so they can prepare for your arrival and begin treatment as quickly as possible. 

Fortunately, a little planning goes a long way in helping prevent heat-related illnesses. Whenever possible, keep flat-faced pets indoors during the hottest part of the day. Exercise dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Make sure all pets have access to fresh water and shade whenever they are outside. Air conditioning, fans and cooling mats can also help vulnerable pets stay comfortable during periods of extreme heat. Even a short walk on hot pavement can create problems. If the sidewalk feels too hot for the back of your hand, it's too hot for your pet's paws. Remember that asphalt and concrete can become significantly hotter than the surrounding air temperature.

And of course, never leave any pet in a parked vehicle—even for just a few minutes. Temperatures inside a car can rise to dangerous levels surprisingly fast, even with the windows cracked. 

This summer, remember that heat doesn't discriminate between species. Whether you share your home with a flat-faced dog or a flat-faced cat, understanding their unique challenges can help prevent a life-threatening emergency. 

Keep yourself—and your pets—safe in the heat.