Heat stroke in cats - what signs should you look out for?Many cats like the heat, but just like humans, they can suffer from heat stroke by staying in the sun for too long. Constant access to plentiful fresh water is essential. Cats do not pant like dogs to help them to regulate their body temperature. If the surrounding air temperature is too high their body temperature will rise quickly. Above 42°C, this can lead to death. Here we describe the signs of heat stroke and how to help your cat if it gets heat stroke.This article was written by a FirstVet vetDid you know that FirstVet offers video calls with experienced, UK registered vets? You can get a consultation within 30 minutes by downloading the FirstVet app for free from the Apple App Store or Google Play.✓ Included free as part of many pet insurance policies✓ Help, treatment and if you need it, a referral to your local vet✓ Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year Rating: 4.9 - more than 1600 reviewsRating: 4.9 - more than 1300 reviewsRating: 4.9 - more than 1600 reviews BOOK Signs of heat stroke in catsEarly signs of heat stroke may be subtle and it is important to know what is normal for your cat. In severe cases a cat may go into shock and become unconscious. Signs to look out for include:Panting and a dark red tongueVery pale or dark red gumsSticky or dry gumsLethargic, weak or wobblyVomiting and/or diarrhoeaDifficulty breathing and collapse, which may progress to seizuresLoss of consciousnessCauses of heat stroke in catsA cat’s normal body temperature is 38.2 - 39.2°C. Above this temperature is abnormal and potentially dangerous. Being trapped in a hot and enclosed space is the most common cause of heat stroke. You can prevent heat stroke by never leaving your cat in such places. It can take as little as 15 minutes for a cat to die of heat-related illness. For example, during the summer in the UK the temperature inside a car can reach 56°C (133°F). Cats can also suffer from heat stroke if they are in the sun for too long without shade, or do not have access to sufficient water.Some cats are more prone to heat stroke than others:Obese catsShort nose (brachycephalic cats)Thick coated or long haired catsKittens and elderly catsCats with health conditions such as heart or lung disease.What can you do to help your cat?If a cat shows symptoms of heat stroke it is important to act quickly.Move your cat to a cool, quiet areaOffer fresh water to drink. Alternatively, a small syringe can be used to put drops of water on the cat’s tongue. Do not force the cat to drink a large volume of water, or force a syringe into its mouth, as you risk causing harmActively cool the cat using cold water, such as a bowl and sponge, or showerDo not submerge the cat’s head in water to prevent aspiration pneumoniaCold wet towels can be placed on the stomach, armpits and pads. Refresh them frequentlyTake the cat’s rectal temperature every five minutes, if it is safe to do so, until the temperature is below 39.2°C (102.5°F)After a mild episode of heat stroke we recommend that you seek advice from a vet to ensure that your cat has no additional complicationsSevere cases must be seen immediately at a vet clinicImportant: never give anti-inflammatory medication to a cat with heat stroke as this can cause harmHow to prevent heat stroke in your catMany cats naturally look for a cooler place when they get too hot. But for an indoor cat, it can sometimes be difficult to find a cool spot. Here are some tips to help prevent heat stroke:Make sure your cat has access to cool places within the homeKeep an eye on your cat if they are in the at risk categories listed above on hot daysProvide ample water sources in multiple places and try running water such as water fountains to encourage drinkingNever leave the cat alone in a car when it is hot, even if you are only away for a short timeTreatment of heat stroke in catsWhole body cooling is the focus of heat stroke treatment. Intravenous fluid therapy is often used to treat the symptoms of shock and electrolyte imbalances. Blood tests are used to evaluate internal organ function. Oxygen and anti-seizure medications may also be needed. Cats that have had heat stroke may need to stay in intensive care for several days until they have stabilised and normal organ function has resumed.When to see your physical vetIf you need to visit a vet, continue to cool your cat whilst on the way to the clinic, if possible. For example, with a cooling mat and air conditioningIn severe cases of heat stroke, rapid veterinary treatment is required - every minute counts! Call your vet to alert them you’re on the wayStill worried?Book a video appointment to have a chat with one of our vets.
