Many of us know that people get heat stroke, but did you know pets are also affected? In Florida, the intense heat can lead to myriad problems for pets, including heat stroke. As a pet owner, you should be aware of the signs of heat stroke so you can take action accordingly.
Prevention is better than cure, so you should protect your pets in hotter weather. Keep them cool, exercise indoors, and keep them hydrated. If your pet shows signs of heat stroke, get advice around the clock with a 24/7 vet Florida so you can ensure speedy treatment.
Read on to learn more about the signs of heat stroke in pets.
Signs to Look For
As a pet owner, you should know how to tell if your pet has heat stroke. Some signs to look for are:
Panting: Heavy panting in pets can be a sign of heat stroke. As heat stroke worsens, your pet might display labored and noisy breathing.
Restlessness: Pets often become restless when they have heat stroke. Pacing, agitation, and looking for shade or water are signs to look for.
Drooling: Keep an eye out for your pet drooling in the hotter weather, as this can also indicate heat stroke.
Red gums: A less obvious sign of heat stroke in pets is red gums, so check the gums regularly. The tongue might also show redness.
Heart rate: Heat stroke can cause an increased heart rate in some pets, so this is another thing to watch.
Diarrhea and Sickness: Diarrhea and sickness are common with many health problems in pets. They are also signs of heat stroke, so keep your eyes peeled for this in hotter weather.
Glazed eyes: If your pet has heat stroke, its eyes might look glazed.
You should also be aware of the advanced signs of heat stroke in pets. This includes:
- Weakness or collapsing
- Confusion
- Lethargy
- Seizures
All the above symptoms affect both cats and dogs, but they are more obvious in dogs.
Take Preventative Steps
The heat in Florida means you have to be prepared as a pet owner. In the hotter weather, you must take steps to help prevent heat stroke and other heat-related problems. Remember:
- Keep your pet hydrated
- Restrict exercise or stick to indoor exercise
- Provide shade
- Use air-con and other cooling methods
Seek Treatment Quickly
If your pet shows signs of heat stroke, you must seek veterinary advice quickly. You don’t have to drag your pet out in the heat, as you can speak to an online vet. They can advise you on the next steps right away, so you can act without delay.
