Heat stroke results from an extreme elevation in body temperature (>106°F) and occurs when heat generation (via metabolism, exercise, environmental conditions, etc) exceeds the body’s ability to dissipate heat (via conduction, convection, radiation and evaporation). Severe hyperthermia affects nearly every system in the body and can lead to kidney failure, gastrointestinal bleeding, brain swelling, blood clots or coagulation problems, septicemia, liver disease, heart muscle damage/failure, fluid buildup in the lungs and shock.
Pets suffering from heat stroke, which can be a cat or a dog, may show one or more of the following clinical signs: extreme panting and respiratory distress, collapse and inability to rise, agitation, foaming at the mouth or thick, ropey saliva, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizures, and very red gums or pale gums. These signs indicate a true emergency and the pet should be brought to the hospital immediately. If a pet is showing the above signs…
WHAT TO DO:
– Remove the pet from the environment where the hyperthermia occurred
– Move the pet to the shade or indoors and direct a fan on him/her
– Begin cooling the pet with cool (not cold) water on the trunk and legs (a tub or garden hose works well)
– If possible, obtain and record the rectal temperature
– Call and transport to the hospital immediately after wetting the animal
WHAT NOT TO DO:
– Do NOT use cold water or ice for cooling unless under the guidance of a veterinarian (this causes peripheral vasoconstriction and shivering, both of which act to increase the body temperature)
– Do NOT delay examination of the pet by a veterinarian
– Do NOT attempt to force the animal to eat or drink
– Do NOT leave the pet unattended
– Do NOT overcool the pet
Please share this information with any friends or pet owners who may not be aware of the dangers of heat stroke!
Courtesy of your friends at the
RIDGEWOOD VETERINARY HOSPITAL
201-447-6000/201-445-0030
