Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats—Signs, Prevention and First Aid

Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency in dogs and cats and can develop very quickly — sometimes in just minutes. While Victorian summers can bring extreme heat, heatstroke can also occur on warm or humid days, or when pets are unable to cool themselves effectively.

Knowing the signs, how to prevent it, and what to do in an emergency can save your pet’s life.

What Is Heatstroke?

Heatstroke occurs when a pet’s body temperature rises to dangerous levels and they can no longer regulate it. Unlike humans, dogs and cats don’t sweat to cool down, they rely mainly on panting and limited heat loss through their paw pads.

Once overheating begins, it can rapidly lead to:

• Organ failure

• Brain damage

• Blood clotting disorders

• Shock

• Death

Heatstroke is always a medical emergency.

Pets Most at Risk

Any dog or cat can suffer heatstroke, but higher-risk pets include:

• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds(e.g. Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Persian cats)

• Overweight or obese pets

• Elderly pets or very young animals

• Pets with heart, airway or neurological disease

• Dark-coloured pets

• Pets exercised in warm or humid weather

Common Causes of Heatstroke

• Being left in a car, even briefly

• Exercise during hot or humid conditions

• Lack of shade or water outdoors

• Poor ventilation (including enclosed yards or rooms)

• Muzzling that restricts panting

• Hot surfaces such as concrete, sand or asphalt

Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs & Cats

Early Signs

• Excessive panting or rapid breathing

• Drooling or thick saliva

• Restlessness or agitation

• Seeking shade or water

• Bright red gums or tongue

Advanced / Severe Signs

• Lethargy or collapse

• Vomiting or diarrhoea (sometimes bloody)

• Weakness or unsteady walking

• Seizures

• Pale or blue gums

• Loss of consciousness

If you notice any of these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.

What To Do: First Aid for Heatstroke

Immediate veterinary treatment is critical, but first aid can help while you are getting to a clinic.

Step-by-Step First Aid

1. Move your pet to a cool, shaded area

2. Begin gentle cooling

   • Use cool (not icy) water

   • Wet the body, especially the belly, paws and neck

3. Increase airflow

   • Use a fan or air conditioning if available

4. Offer small amounts of cool water

   • Only if your pet is conscious and able to swallow

5. Seek emergency veterinary care immediately

Important Do NOTs

• Do not use ice or ice baths

• Do not cover your pet with wet towels

• Do not delay veterinary treatment

• Do not force water into the mouth

Cooling too aggressively can cause blood vessel constriction and worsen internal damage.

How to Prevent Heatstroke

At Home

• Always provide fresh water and shade

• Keep pets indoors during extreme heat

• Ensure good ventilation

• Use cooling mats or damp towels

• Never leave pets in cars — even with windows down

Exercise Safely

• Walk dogs early morning or late evening

• Avoid hot pavement (if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for paws)

• Reduce exercise intensity on warm days

Extra Care for High-Risk Pets

• Use harnesses instead of tight collars

• Keep flat-faced breeds cool and calm

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Talk to our vets about individual heat risk

When to Seek Veterinary Help

If you suspect heatstroke — even if your pet seems to recover — urgent veterinary assessment is essential. Internal organ damage can continue to develop hours after initial cooling.

Early treatment dramatically improves outcomes.

We’re Here to Help

If you’re concerned about your pet during hot weather or need urgent advice, contact us or your nearest emergency vet immediately. Heatstroke is preventable, and quick action can save lives.