Understanding the warning signs of heat exhaustion from pets can help you act quickly to protect your pet’s overall health.
Our pets are at a higher risk for heat exhaustion as summer temperatures increase. Unlike humans, pets have fewer ways to cool down, making them prone to overheating. Understanding the warning signs of heat exhaustion from pets can help you act quickly to protect your pet’s overall health. Watch out for the following signs:
Excessive Panting & Drooling
Panting is a normal behavior for dogs, mainly when they are hot. However, excessive panting can indicate something is wrong. It’s usually a sign of heat exhaustion from pets. Excessive panting with an unusual amount of drooling demonstrates that your pet struggles to regulate its body temperature. In particular, open-mouth panting is rare in cats, so pet owners should take it seriously.
Lethargic and Weakness
Heat exhaustion from pets often makes them lethargic. If your usually playful cat or dog is suddenly sluggish, refuses to move, or seems unusually weak, it’s not good. Your pet might lie down and be unwilling to get up, or they might struggle to stand or walk.
Vomiting & Diarrhea
Moreover, overheating can cause tummy distress in pets. If your cat or dog starts vomiting or has diarrhea, especially when combined with other heat exhaustion symptoms, it’s a cause for concern. Unfortunately, these symptoms can quickly result in dehydration, exacerbating the problem.
Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat
A rapid or irregular heartbeat is a severe symptom of heat exhaustion from pets. You might discover your pet’s chest rapidly rising and falling or feel their heartbeat palpitating quickly when you place your hand on their chest. This means their body is under substantial stress, attempting to cool down.
Bright Red or Pale Mouth Gums
Make sure to inspect your pet’s gums as a quick health indicator. Bright red gums may signal heat exhaustion, while pale or white gums can signify severe dehydration and shock. Remember, both require immediate veterinary attention. Healthy gums should be pinkish, so any deviation from this can indicate trouble.
Support Your Pet’s Wellness at Alexander Animal Hospital
Alexander Animal Hospital is a full-service animal hospital located in Severna Park, Maryland, serving the Severna Park, Pasadena, and Arnold Areas. Our goal is educating clients on the needs of their pets and understanding the importance of individualized veterinary care in order to strengthen the human-animal bond between owners and their pets.
We understand you have a choice when deciding on the care for your pets, and we strive to provide you with unparalleled services including wellness exams, vaccines, lost pet microchip ID, dental care, surgical services, digital radiography, and in-hospital laboratory services and diagnostics. Other highlights of Alexander Animal Hospital are the separate cat and dog waiting and exam rooms, as well as after-hours on-call emergency services.
Please take a look around our website and then give us a call at 410-777-8678 to set up an appointment. We’re social! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest for all the latest updates!