Heatstroke in cats and dogs: signs and first aid
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In short
Heatstroke is an emergency. If your pet is panting hard with red gums, weakness or vomiting in the heat, stop all activity, move them into shade, cool them with water that is cooler than their body, then go straight to the vet. The rule is: cool first, then transport.
Signs of heatstroke
- Heavy panting or fast, noisy breathing. Panting in a cat is a warning sign on its own.
- Dark red gums and tongue, or very pale gums.
- Thick, sticky drool.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea, sometimes with blood.
- Weakness, wobbling or trouble standing and walking.
- Shivering, seizures or collapse.
Who is most at risk
- Flat-faced breeds such as bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats.
- Puppies, kittens and older pets.
- Pets with thick coats or extra weight.
- Pets with heart or breathing problems.
First aid, step by step
- Stop all activity and move your pet out of the car or hot spot into shade or an air-conditioned room.
- Pour water that is cooler than their body over the neck, belly and thighs, keeping it away from the nose and mouth.
- Use a fan or open windows to keep air moving around them.
- Offer water to drink, but don’t force it.
- Don’t cover them with a wet towel, which traps heat; you can lay one underneath them instead.
- As soon as cooling has started, go straight to the vet in an air-conditioned car, keep cooling them on the way, and call the clinic ahead.
Prevention in summer
- Never leave your pet in a car, even for a few minutes.
- Walk dogs early in the morning or after sunset, and avoid hot pavement.
- Always provide shade and cool water.
- Take extra care on hot, humid days; humidity makes it harder for animals to cool down.
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This information is for general awareness and does not replace a vet’s examination. If your pet is unwell, contact us directly.