It seems like overnight, the temperatures have shot up into the 90's reaching record highs. This drastic change in heat and humidity is tough on us, but also on our pets! It's very important to anticipate the hot weather and know how to keep your pets cool this summer. Here's a quick break down on how to keep your cats and dogs cool this summer!
Cats:
* Cats are NOT small dogs! They do not pant to help themselves cool down. In fact, they sweat through their paws. On really hot days you might even notice there are wet paw prints through the house. This is an early sign that your cat's temperature is rising. You may also notice an excessive amount of grooming as a cat gets hotter.
* Bathing cats can be difficult and is often times frustrating. Instead, help keep long haired cats cool by shaving their belly or having a groomer give the cat a lion cut for the summer.
* Allow access to cool surfaces such as tile in the bathroom or kitchen. Cats will often lay on these surfaces to help cool themselves down.
* If your cat is an outside cat, make sure there is constant access to shade and water. Leaving the garage door open with many bowls of water is a great idea.
* Some cats enjoy ice cubes in their water and slow moving fans to keep cool as well.
Dogs:
* ALWAYS PROVIDE CONSTANT ACCESS TO WATER AND SHADE! This is the most important thing you can do.
* Providing plastic pools and sprinklers are a fun way for dogs to cool off. Make sure to frequently change the water in the pools, as standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes.
* Limit time outside for certain breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, other short nosed dogs) and limit activity outside for all dogs on very hot and humid days.
* Shaving the coat on long coated dogs can drastically help dogs cool off. Older and smaller dogs have a more difficult time at thermoregulation, keeping themselves cool. Giving them a shorter hair cut in the summer can make a big difference.
All Pets:
DO NOT leave your pet unattended in a car during the summer. Even if the windows are down and the car is parked in the shade, cars can heat up very quickly and this can be fatal to your pet. Many police are now ticketing owners who leave their pets in the car during the summer.
If you suspect your pet has overheated:
This is often a fatal condition. Call your veterinarian immediately. It is important that the pet receives immediate medical attention to help cool down, rehydrate and protect the GI tract, heart, and kidneys. Often times these are critical cases that result in clotting disorders and ultimately death. If you try to cool your pet down yourself, DO NOT submerge them in a bath of ice water. The cooling needs to be done slowly to prevent the temperature from dropping too low.
As always, if you have questions about keeping your pets cool or heat stroke, call your veterinarian.
