Too Hot to Handle: Protecting Dogs and Cats from Heat Stress This Summer

Why heat stress is dangerous for pets

Dogs and cats cope with heat very differently from humans. While we cool ourselves by sweating, pets have far fewer ways to regulate their body temperature.

Dogs primarily rely on panting, while cats often respond to heat by reducing activity and seeking out cooler places. However, once a pet’s body temperature begins to rise, it can increase rapidly — particularly on hot or humid days, or when airflow is limited.

Heat stress is not just about discomfort. If left untreated, it can lead to:

• Severe dehydration
• Damage to vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, and brain
• Collapse
• In severe cases, death

One of the most concerning aspects of heat stress is that it can occur even on days that don’t feel extreme to us, especially when exercise, humidity, or confinement is involved.

Which pets are most at risk?

While any pet can suffer from heat stress, some are particularly vulnerable and require extra care during warmer months.

Pets at higher risk include:

• Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Persian cats
• Overweight pets, who struggle more to regulate body temperature
• Senior pets, whose bodies may not cope as well with heat
• Very young puppies and kittens
• Pets with underlying medical conditions, particularly heart or respiratory disease

That said, even young, fit, and healthy pets can develop heat stress if exposed to high temperatures for too long or exercised during the hottest part of the day.

Early warning signs of heat stress in dogs and cats

Recognising the early signs of heat stress can make a critical difference to your pet’s outcome. The sooner action is taken, the better.

Common warning signs include:

• Heavy or excessive panting
• Drooling, particularly thick or sticky saliva
• Lethargy or weakness
• Restlessness or distress
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Gums that appear very red, pale, or dry

In more severe cases, pets may collapse or become unresponsive. This is an emergency and requires immediate veterinary attention.

If you are ever unsure whether your pet is overheating, it is always safer to seek advice sooner rather than later.

Simple ways to prevent heat stress

The good news is that heat stress is largely preventable. A few simple adjustments to your pet’s routine can significantly reduce their risk.

Here are some practical steps you can take:

Choose the right time for exercise: Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are cooler. Avoid exercising pets during the hottest part of the day.

Provide constant access to fresh water: Ensure your pet always has access to clean, cool water. On very hot days, check water bowls regularly and refresh them as needed.

Create cool, shaded spaces: Pets should always have access to shade outdoors and well-ventilated, cool areas indoors. Fans and air conditioning can help, but make sure pets can move away if they wish.

Never leave pets in cars: Even on mild days, temperatures inside cars can rise dangerously within minutes. Leaving a pet in a car, even briefly, can be fatal.

Reduce activity on hot days: Avoid vigorous play or training during warm weather. Cats, in particular, benefit from quiet, cool resting areas where they won’t be disturbed.

A helpful rule of thumb is this: if it feels uncomfortably hot for you, it is likely too hot for your pet.

What to do if you are concerned about your pet

If you think your dog or cat may be overheating:

1. Move them to a cool, shaded, or air-conditioned area immediately
2. Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water
3. Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for advice

Prompt treatment can be life-saving, so it is always better to call and ask than to wait and see.

How Highlands Veterinary Hospital can help

At Highlands Veterinary Hospital, your pet’s health and wellbeing are our priority all year round.

If you are concerned about how your pet copes in hot weather, or if you would like personalised advice based on your pet’s age, breed, or health status, our veterinary team is here to help.

Final thoughts

Summer should be a season of enjoyment, not stress or emergency visits. With a little planning and awareness, heat stress is something that can often be prevented.

By understanding the risks, recognising early warning signs, and making small changes to your pet’s routine, you can help keep your dog or cat safe, comfortable, and healthy throughout the warmer months.

If you ever have questions or concerns, the team at Highlands Veterinary Hospital is always here to support you and your pets.