Heat Exhaustion in Pets: Warning Signs Every Owner Should Know

The temperatures are starting to rise here in Folsom, and that means that pets are at a higher risk for heat-related illness and injury. Heat exhaustion can come on quickly, and can cause major problems for your pets, but knowing the warning signs can help you act quickly. If you notice any of these overheating pet symptoms, get to a veterinarian as soon as possible:

Excessive Panting

One of the earliest signs that your pet is overheating is excessive panting, heavy breathing, or drooling significantly more than normal. Pets who are experiencing heat exhaustion might even pant when they are lying down. 

Change in Color of Gums

When your pet is overheated, there might be a noticeable change in the color of the gums. If you see gums that are bright red, brick red, or pale blue, you should schedule a veterinary visit immediately. This can be an indication of a serious heat-related health issue for your pet. 

Lethargy or Weakness

Heat exhaustion can also zap your pet of his or her energy. If you notice that your pet is suddenly lethargic or weak for extended periods, it’s time to schedule a visit with your vet. This might present as unsteadiness when walking, or being unwilling or able to move much. 

Gastrointestinal Distress

Your pet’s gastrointestinal system exists in a delicate balance that can be thrown off by illness. This means that excessive diarrhea or vomiting could be a side effect of an issue like heat exhaustion. Even if overheating is not the cause for this particular problem in your pet, gastrointestinal distress is definitely something your veterinarian should address as soon as possible.

Disorientation or Collapse

Heat exhaustion can also make your dog or cat disoriented, confused, or unable to remain standing. In some cases, it might even lead to loss of consciousness. This is considered an emergency, and you should get into a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Increased Temperature

While you might not have an animal-safe thermometer in your house, many pets who are suffering from heat exhaustion will feel hot to the touch. 

Seizures or Tremors 

In extreme cases, heat exhaustion can lead to seizures or tremors. This means the heat exhaustion has advanced to a critical stage, and you must get veterinary care right away. 

How to Prevent Heat Exhaustion in Pets

There are plenty of ways you can decrease your pet’s chance for developing any issues related to overheating. These include:

Keeping high risk pets inside during the hottest parts of the day (senior pets, brachycephalic breeds, overweight pets, or those with heart or lung disease are especially at risk). 

• Try to limit outdoor time to only 5-10 minutes for all pets on the hottest days. 
• Protect your pet’s paws (if the ground is too hot for you to touch for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws). 
• Provide extra water to account for increased hydration needs.
• If you think your pet is overheating, immediately get to a cool or shaded area, provide water, and use a damp towel with lukewarm water to try to lower their body temperature. Get to a veterinarian as soon as you can.

At Blue Ravine Animal Hospital, we are committed to veterinary excellence to keep your pets in the best health all year long. We are here for everything from regular wellness visits to sick pet care and more. We also have Urgent Care appointments available during our regular business hours. Call (916) 984-0990 to schedule an appointment.