Help Your Pets Keep Their Cool

Help Your Pets Keep Their Cool
December 17, 2015 Cure All Pest Control

Keeping-Pets-Cool-header

Australia’s beautiful summer is upon us, however sometimes the heat can become a little unbearable. Even worse, when we’re busy keeping ourselves cool we can sometimes forget that our beloved pets feel the heat as well.

Whether you have a cat, dog, budgie or something in between your pet is susceptible to heatstroke, and it’s important to take some measures to make sure they keep their cool.

Heatstroke is state of hyperthermia- a state where the body temperature is above the normal range and can subsequently cause thermal injury to the tissue. Essentially, it occurs when the ability for the body to lose heat cannot keep up with the amount of heat generated. This debilitates the animals ability to cool themselves effectively. Heatstroke is not to be taken lightly as it can lead to multiple organ failure from which animals die very quickly.

In summer, you should be aware of the symptoms of heatstroke, below we’ve listed some (not all) of these symptoms so you can be alert.

  • Extremely red or pale gums
  • Increased or changed breathing/panting
  • Vomiting and diarrhoea
  • Lethargy, weakness and dizziness
  • Muscle tremors and collapsing

But don’t fret, we have some simple ways you can help keep your pet cool this summer.

 

Some simple guidelines

Pets need to be provided with a cool and shaded area during hot days. Good ventilation in this area is extremely important as most animals cool down through panting which requires good airflow. In this area be sure to keep cool and fresh water so your pet can keep hydrated. You should also provide a little more than usual in case of spillage. Furthermore, for cats and dogs with light pigmentation make sure you apply approved sunscreen to susceptible body areas such as their nose and ears.

When it’s getting too hot outside bring your pet inside. Make sure there is good airflow through the use of air conditioning or a fan.

Small animals (guinea pigs, rats, birds, etc.)

For animals that live in cages, it is important not to leave them in the hot sun. Make sure you move them into the shade, and on really hot days move them into a cool room inside your house.

 

Some tricks and tips for your canine and feline friends

For your cat

  • If you find your cat is still too hot, you can simply wipe their coat with a damp cloth. The cloth needs to be at a cool, but not ice-cold temperature. If it’s too cold, it will shock their system.
  • If your cat likes water, you can also fill the sink with water to about paw level and let them stand it in.

For your dog

  • Create some frozen treats for your dog, they’ll help to cool and hydrate your best mate.
  • Let your dog go for a swim or give it a bubble bath in lukewarm water.

Remember, these are just some tips to keep your pet cool this summer. You need to be vigilant in how you take care of your animal during summer and the extreme heat it brings. If your pet shows any sign of heatstroke, take your pet to the vet immediately because heatstroke can be deadly.

For more information on heatstroke and your pets, visit RSPCA.