As the thermometer climbs, it is crucial that your pet remains comfortable, safe, and sheltered. Cats and dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, and if you want to include your furry friend in summer activities, prioritize their security so the experience is enjoyable and risk-free. Our State Ave Veterinary Clinic team offers this guide on maintaining your pet’s health and welfare during the hot summer months.

Heat safety for pets

When summer days are too hot for you, your furry friend feels the same way. Pets are not as heat-resilient in heat as once erroneously thought. Your pet does not sweat through their skin to cool down and relies solely on minimal sweat glands and panting, which can set them up for dehydration and heatstroke. Practice these heat safety tips to prevent an emergency: 

  • Keep your pet hydrated — Always provide fresh, cool water for your pet. Dehydration can set in quickly, especially in high temperatures. Place multiple water bowls around your home and outdoors. For a fun twist, add ice cubes to your pet’s water dish to keep the water cooler for longer.

  • Adjust exercise routines — Limit walks and outdoor activities to early mornings or late evenings when temperatures are lower. Pavement and sand can become scorching hot and burn your pet’s paws. A good rule of thumb is testing the pavement with the back of your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your four-legged friend.

Also, reduce the intensity and duration of your pet’s exercise on sweltering days. Short, frequent play sessions in the air-conditioning and walks in the shade are better and safer than long, strenuous activities outdoors.

  • Provide cool resting areas — Ensure your pet can access shaded areas and cool places inside and outside your home. Fans, air conditioning, or cooling mats can provide much-needed relief from the heat. For pets who enjoy the outdoors, ensure they have shade from trees or umbrellas.

  • Groom your pet for comfort — Regular grooming, including bathing and brushing, helps your pet stay comfortable. Trim dogs with thick fur or take them to a professional groomer for a summer haircut. For cats, regular brushing can reduce excess fur and minimize shedding. Resist the temptation to completely shave your dog or cat, because their fur insulates them from the heat and reduces sunburn risk.

  • Protect your pet’s skin — Pets can get sunburned, especially those with short hair or light-colored coats. Apply pet-safe sunscreen—never a human product—to their noses, ears, and other exposed skin areas to shield them from harmful UV rays.

  • Offer frozen treats — Frozen treats or “pupsicles” not only cool down your pet but also keep them entertained. Freeze low-sodium broth, small pieces of fruit, or pet-safe yogurt in ice cube trays for a refreshing snack. Let your cat also enjoy the fun with ice cubes made with tuna water.

Heat illness warning signs in pets

Pets are at risk for several heat-related conditions, including cramping, dehydration, heat exhaustion, and life-threatening heatstroke, and recognizing heat distress signs can save your pet’s life.

Heatstroke signs include:

  • Excessive panting
  • Lethargy
  • Drooling
  • Whining
  • Disorientation
  • Seizures
  • Collapse

Contact our State Ave Veterinary Clinic team immediately if you suspect your pet has a heat-related illness.

While most pet owners know this, it’s worth repeating—never leave your pet in a parked car. Even if you leave the windows cracked, a vehicle’s inside temperature can rise rapidly, leading to heatstroke or death.

Heat safety with certain breeds and conditions in pets

Certain breeds, such as brachycephalic dogs and cats (e.g., bulldogs, pugs, Persian cats) and thick-coated breeds, are more susceptible to heat. These pets require extra care and should be monitored closely during hot weather. Additionally, pets with medical conditions and senior cats and dogs are more susceptible to heat and need to stay in air-conditioned places during hot weather. Plus, consider cooling mats for extra comfort.

Maintaining your pet’s comfort, safety, and happiness during summer requires vigilance and proactive measures. Keep your pet hydrated, cool, and protected from the sun, and you and your pet will enjoy the summer months safely. Schedule an appointment with our State Ave Veterinary Clinic team for additional tips, or if you would like customized advice for your four-legged friend.