During the summer, it is important to keep a close eye on your pets and ensure that they can handle the heat. Hot weather can lead to heat exhaustion and heatstroke, and these types of heat-related illnesses can come on quickly. Follow these helpful tips for keeping your pet safe in hot weather.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke
All types of pets, from dogs and cats to rabbits and reptiles, are susceptible to heatstroke, so it’s important to recognize the signs. The following symptoms of heatstroke are common in all pets.
- Lethargy
- Confusion and disorientation
- Loss of appetite
- Rapid, open-mouthed breathing
- Stumbling and muscle weakness
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Hot or red ears (in rabbits)
- Darkening of skin (in reptiles)
If you notice any of these signs in your pet, get them to a cool area, provide drinking water, and call your local emergency veterinary clinic to coordinate immediate care. Small pets, such as rabbits and reptiles, are particularly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses, but all pets should be closely monitored when temperatures rise outside.
Keep Your Pet Well Hydrated
Hydration is essential for pets during the summertime, but you may find it difficult to track how much water your pet is drinking and get them to drink more water if their hydration needs are not being met. Cats can be especially tricky to keep hydrated. You may need to put out multiple water bowls and change the water throughout the day. Some cats may also enjoy flowing water from a cat water fountain. For rabbits and veggie-eating reptiles, serve plenty of fresh vegetables soaked in water. Leafy greens, bell peppers, and cucumbers all have high moisture content, so they are good choices for your pet’s summer diet. For cats and dogs, consider adding wet food to their bowl instead of dry kibble on its own.
Monitor Your Garden
Along with heat, there are some other outdoor hazards you need to be aware of during the summer. For example, your backyard garden may be filled with plants that seem enticing for your dog, cat, or rabbit, but that are toxic if consumed. These include:
- Azaleas
- Lilies
- English ivy
- Foxglove
- Chrysanthemum
- Aloe vera
- Yew
- Rhubarb
- Pothos
Many other common garden plants are toxic for pets, so be sure to closely monitor dogs, cats, and rabbits that have outdoor access. You may need to fence off certain areas or consider an outdoor enclosure like a catio or outdoor rabbit hutch where your pet can enjoy the outdoors safely.
If your pet experiences heatstroke or ingests a potentially toxic plant, do not wait to seek emergency veterinary care. At Animal Emergency Clinic North East, we offer 24/7 emergency pet services in Humble, TX. You do not need an appointment to access our emergency clinic, but you can call (281) 446-4900 to let us know you’re on your way. We are here for you and your pet with the specialized medical services they need in an emergency, including laboratory testing, radiology, surgical care, and an on-site pharmacy.