Cats, with their furry coats, are naturally equipped to handle cold weather, but excessive heat can pose a significant threat to their well-being. Heat stroke, a potentially life-threatening condition, can affect cats, especially during the hot summer months. Understanding the causes, signs, prevention, and appropriate responses to heat stroke is essential for every cat owner.
Heat stroke
Although heat stroke is far more common in dogs than cats, there are still a multitude of ways in which cats can be at risk and they are just as susceptible to the devasting consequences.
What happens in heat stroke?
The typical range for a cat's body temperature is 101°F to 102°F (38.3–38.9°C). As a result, they can tolerate higher temperatures than humans can. Nevertheless, cats' ability to sweat to enhance evaporative heat loss is limited, just like that of dogs. Because of this, cats rely on additional heat-losing strategies, such as grooming and spit depositing on their fur, to aid in thermoregulation.
Your cat runs the danger of developing heat stroke if their body temperature rises above 104°F (40°C). Severe neurological abnormalities, such as behavioral and balance impairments, are the primary indicator of heat stroke; however, other organ systems, such as the heart, liver, and kidneys, are frequently impacted. It might not be possible to reverse the underlying organ dysfunction—which still has the potential to be fatal—even with rapid cooling.
Why do cats get heat stroke?
Whereas the most common cause of non-exertional heat stroke in dogs is being left in cars, with owners often thinking a short period of time will be safe, cats are more likely to be trapped in out buildings / sheds, where temperatures can still climb to dangerous levels and there is no access to water. However, any location with high ambient temperatures and minimal ventilation will increase the risk of heat stroke.
Cats with short faces and longer coats will also find it more difficult to lose excess heat and are at higher risk of heat stroke.
What are the early signs of heat stroke?
Recognition of the early signs of heat strokes is very important. Initial changes include rapid breathing, unsteadiness, dry gums and a fast heart rate. Panting is a late stage sign in cats compared to dogs. Vomiting and diarrhoea may occur. Unfortunately many cats will be found after a prolonged period of heat stress and it is therefore recommended that veterinary attention is immediately sought.
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Excessive Panting: Cats may excessively pant when they are overheated. Panting helps them dissipate heat, but if it becomes rapid and shallow, it's a cause for concern.
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Lethargy: Overheated cats often appear unusually tired and sluggish.
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Drooling: Cats might drool excessively due to dehydration and heat stress.
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Vomiting and Diarrhea: Digestive disturbances are common signs of heat stroke in cats.
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Bright Red Gums and Tongue: An overheated cat's gums and tongue can turn bright red.
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Unsteady Gait or Collapse: In severe cases, cats may have difficulty walking and might collapse.
Can I do anything to help my cat?
Cooling your cat should not delay attending a veterinary clinic but quick measures that can be taken include irrigating the body with room temperature tap water. Do not use ice water as this can constrict the vessels in the skin and stop heat loss. Do not submerge the body in water as if your cat is severely affected it might be at risk of inhaling water. Covering with a towel is also not recommended as this can also reduce heat loss.
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Move to a Cool Environment: Take your cat to a cooler, shaded area or an air-conditioned room.
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Offer Water: Allow your cat to drink small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water.
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Cooling Measures: Use a damp cloth or towel soaked in cool (not cold) water and gently pat your cat's body. Avoid using ice-cold water as it can constrict blood vessels and hinder the cooling process.
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Contact a Veterinarian: Even if your cat seems to recover, it's essential to seek veterinary attention to ensure there are no underlying complications.
How will my vet help my cat?
Your vet will need to admit your cat to the hospital for treatment. In the early stages the most important action is to reduce your cat’s body temperature. This can usually be achieved with wetting the fur and applying fans but further tests and supportive care for any organ damage will also need to be initiated concurrently.
Depending on the severity of the heat stroke and development of secondary organ dysfunction, your cat may need to be hospitalised for many days. Cats are particularly prone to kidney injury and this is likely to require prolonged intravenous fluid therapy.
Will my cat get better?
Heat stroke is a very serious condition. Although fewer cats are presented for veterinary attention of heat stroke and therefore less information on prognosis is available, it is well recognised that heat stroke can still be fatal. However with prompt treatment some cats can still make a full recovery.
Prevention Tips
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Provide Shade and Ventilation: Ensure your cat has access to shaded areas and well-ventilated spaces during hot weather.
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Ample Water Supply: Always provide fresh and cool water for your cat. Consider using ice cubes to keep the water cool.
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Limit Outdoor Activities: Restrict outdoor activities, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
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Avoid Hot Surfaces: Hot pavement or surfaces can burn a cat's paws. Opt for grassy or shaded areas when outside.
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Avoid Hot Cars: Never leave your cat inside a parked car, even for a few minutes. Temperatures inside a car can skyrocket rapidly.
An otherwise healthy animal might succumb to heat stroke in as little as twenty minutes, which is a terrifying situation. The greatest defense is prevention, but if you think your cat may be suffering from heat stroke, get them to the clinic right away.
