Adopt the featured critter this week – Wes

It’s not as well known of a fact, but cats can suffer a heat stroke just as dogs can. It’s not as common in cats, probably due to the fact that cats don’t tend to go for car rides as much as dogs do and most people don’t take their cats jogging or to the park. Cats also seem to be more concerned about their comfort so they will be all about seeking out a cooler area to lounge around in. After saying all that, please know that cats can suffer from heat stroke. Unlike their canine friends, they may end up in situations like becoming trapped in a shed or other “oven type” structures for a long period of time during a hot part of the day, or being left in a confined area without shade or access to water (or a car like on a drive or during a move or a trip).

 

the chances for heat stroke does also.  Some contributing factors can be: Age, Weight, Breed, Existing medical conditions and their coat. You can talk to your veterinarian about ways to keep your cat’s risk factors in check. Some things NOT to do for heat stroke in cats are: Do Not force your cat to drink water or pour water into their mouth. Do Not use ice or extremely cold water, or ice packs. Do Not submerge them in water. Do Not cool your pet too fast. Do Not skip the trip to the vet. Temperatures can spike again, and there may be damage to internal organs.  Unfortunately, cats can be very good at hiding health problems… If you notice your cat showing one or more of these symptoms, it could be an indication that they are suffering from heat stroke or some other condition that warrants medical evaluation and you should contact your vet immediately: Panting, Sweaty Feet (cats sweat through glands in their paws), Disorientation, Vomiting, Restlessness, Lethargy, Drooling (or thick/sticky saliva), Bright red tongue/mouth, and/or Rectal temp about 105 degrees F (normal temp should be 103).