Five tips to take care of pets from heat stroke

Should I cut their hair, do they also use sunscreen, what temperature should the water be, should they eat less food? These are some of the questions that those who have pets ask themselves with the arrival of the days of extreme heat. Experts explain everything you need to know to keep them fresh and healthy.

Pets, just like humans, suffer from and are affected by high summer temperatures and in some cases even a little more. In the case of dogs, since they do not have sweat glands distributed throughout the body, they only manage to regulate their body temperature through panting and eliminate sweat through the pads of their paws when they are in contact with cold surfaces, a process that is characterized because it is quite slow.

Cats, meanwhile, do it through body licking.

For dogs and cats, heat stroke is caused by an abrupt increase in body temperature (normal temperature 38-39.5, and can reach 43°). This leads to dehydration, increased heart rate, respiratory signs, and excessive panting.

In addition, their mucous membranes and gums can acquire an intense pink or purple color due to the lack of oxygenation in the blood. In many cases it can lead to loss of consciousness, major problems such as kidney failure and heart problems.

For dogs and cats, heat stroke leads to dehydration, increased heart rate, respiratory signs, and excessive panting For dogs and cats, heat stroke leads to dehydration, increased heart rate, respiratory signs, and excessive panting Share

Before any of these signs, it is necessary to visit the vet urgently, however, there are different methods to keep animals cool and prevent these situations from affecting their well-being.

"Heat stroke is a veterinary medical emergency, therefore it is very important to know and detect when our animal is experiencing heat beforehand," says Melisa Trajtman. And he adds: "Although some symptoms can put us on alert, others, such as fatigue or drowsiness when trying to reduce energy expenditure, indicate that actions must be put into practice that contribute to building a fresher and more suitable environment for your body. In this way, we promote five useful tips to prevent any condition caused by heat.”

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“Pets must have an area that shelters and protects them from the sun and heat. The rest spaces must be cool, with ventilation, where the sun's rays do not penetrate and they can have water and food without any impediment. Likewise, maintaining a balanced and complete diet is essential, especially in the summer, when some tend to lose their appetite. Encouraging their healthy nutrition and constant hydration will keep them prepared for this time of year and they will be able to face it calmly and happily”, concluded Ayelen Geier, Vitalcan's technical advisor.

For dogs and cats, heat stroke leads to dehydration, increased heart rate, respiratory signs, and excessive panting For dogs and cats, heat stroke leads to dehydration, increased heart rate, respiratory signs, and excessive panting ShareBefore any of these signs, it is necessary to visit the vet urgently, however, there are different methods to keep animals cool and prevent these situations from affecting their well-being.