Is Your cat Overheating?
When you feel hot or even warm, chances are your cat does too. Our feline friends can be susceptible to overheating, heat stroke, dehydration, and other heat-related illnesses just like us. The risk of these things happening increase as the temperature starts climbing. To help your feline friend, learn the common signs of cats overheating, common behaviors, and what to do if you think your cat is overheating.
Signs Your Cat Is Overheating
If your cat exhibits any of the following symptoms they may be at risk for heat-related illnesses:
- Panting
- Restlessness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dark red or greyish gums
- Lethargy
- Increased body temperature
- Vocalizing
Relief For Heat Exhaustion
Often, your cat will take it upon themselves to get to a cool or shady spot. So how can you help? Giving your cat a cool calm and soothing environment will keep his stress down and let the situation stay under control. Contact your veterinarian and then transport your cat to your vet, or animal hospital immediately.
If water does not stress your cat out rinsing them in cool (not cold) water can help relieve. Putting ice cubes on your cat or submerging them in water can increase their stress level increasing their risk of complications.
Other ways to help are by bringing them to an air conditions room, rubbing them with a damp towel, and making sure drinking water is available at all times. Some cats may refuse to drink still water so the Fresh Flow II Fountain will entice your cat to drink out of a waterfall-like fountain. If your cat refuses to drink dropping a couple of beads of water with a syringe or eyedropper will start rehydrating them.
Temperatures can get high, and we want to keep our cats comfortable and healthy. Knowing these tips could save your cats life!
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