[Permanent Preservation] Has Your Cat Suffered From Heatstroke? A Veterinarian Explains How to Recognize It, Provide First Aid, and What to Do Until Your Vet Visit

As July begins, we're experiencing many hot days. We also hear news reports of people being transported to hospitals due to heatstroke.

In hot environments, not only humans but also cats can suffer from heatstroke.

Heatstroke in animals is an emergency, and unfortunately, the possibility of death is very high.

This time, we will explain cat heatstroke.

What is cat heatstroke?

Heatstroke is a condition where the body's temperature regulation system fails due to a sudden rise in temperature, leading to high body temperature, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances.

Humans cool their bodies by sweating all over, but cats can only sweat from certain parts of their bodies, such as their paw pads.

Cats' ancestors lived in deserts, so they are not very good at handling humid environments like Japan.

In hot and humid conditions, cats cannot sweat effectively, causing their body temperature to rise, which can lead to heatstroke.

Heatstroke, not just in cats, is an emergency, and the possibility of death is very high. Even if they survive, there is a possibility of lingering after-effects.

If your cat is in a hot environment and exhibits the following symptoms, they may have heatstroke.

Main symptoms of cat heatstroke

• Hot body (body temperature 40 degrees Celsius or higher)
• Lethargy
• Rapid breathing
• Open-mouthed breathing, drooling
• Eyes, mouth, and ears are red and congested
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Staggering
• Bloody urine, bloody stools
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

Among these symptoms, the ones further down the list indicate more severe conditions.

Loss of appetite in the summer heat may occur, but a characteristic of heatstroke is the rapid worsening of symptoms.

Characteristics of cats susceptible to heatstroke

All cats are at risk of heatstroke in hot environments, but the following cats are particularly at higher risk.

Kittens and senior cats

Kittens and senior cats have immature or deteriorated thermoregulation functions.

Even in hot environments, they may struggle to move to cooler spots, causing their body temperature to rise.

Long-haired breeds

Long-haired cats have denser fur than short-haired cats, making them more prone to rising body temperatures. Long-haired breeds often originate from cold regions and tend to be sensitive to heat.

Brachycephalic breeds

Brachycephalic breeds are what are commonly known as flat-faced cats. This includes Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs.

Brachycephalic cats have narrow noses, mouths, and tracheas, making it difficult for air to pass through.

While cats can release body heat through respiration, brachycephalic cats cannot effectively dissipate heat from their bodies. This increases their risk of heatstroke.

Obese cats

Obese cats have a lot of fatty tissue, making them more prone to retaining heat in their bodies. Also, fatty tissue accumulates around the airways, making it difficult to dissipate heat through breathing.

Cats with pre-existing conditions

Cats with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease or respiratory illness have a higher risk of developing heatstroke. Additionally, cats with pre-existing conditions are often older, making them more susceptible to heatstroke and increasing the likelihood of severe complications.

First aid for cat heatstroke

If your cat shows symptoms of heatstroke, immediate action is crucial for their life. Here's how to provide first aid for heatstroke.

Create a cool environment

Heatstroke occurs in hot environments. Therefore, if you find your cat with heatstroke, you need to immediately turn on the air conditioning or, if outdoors, move them to a shady, well-ventilated area.

Cool the body

Heatstroke is a condition where body temperature becomes high and the body cannot lower its temperature on its own. Therefore, it is necessary to lower the body temperature.

To lower body temperature, it is effective to cool the neck, armpits, and inner thighs, where there are large blood vessels. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a towel to these areas.

Placing a wet towel on the cat is also effective, but blowing air with a fan will help lower the body temperature even more.

If a shower is available, showering the cat would also be beneficial.

Give water

In cases of heatstroke, the cat may not be able to drink enough water. If the cat is conscious, bring a bowl of water to their mouth.

If the cat is unconscious or cannot drink water on their own, never force them to drink. This could cause choking. In such cases, go to a veterinary hospital immediately.

Steps to take before visiting the vet

Even with mild symptoms of heatstroke, you should always take your cat to the vet.

There is a possibility of serious symptoms or sequelae appearing later.

Here are the steps to take before bringing a cat with heatstroke to the vet.

Provide first aid

Upon discovering a state of heatstroke, it is necessary to immediately administer first aid and lower the body temperature as much as possible.

Call the veterinary clinic

If you need to take your cat to the vet for heatstroke, try to call them beforehand.

Heatstroke is a critical emergency, and preparations for oxygen therapy, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and other medications and equipment are necessary.

A veterinary hospital that receives a call will prepare the necessary items and wait for the heatstroke-affected cat to arrive.

When calling the vet, please provide not only basic information about your cat but also the following:

• Time of onset (if the cat was outdoors, how long they were outside)
• Cat's condition
• How long it will take to reach the hospital
• Presence of any pre-existing conditions

Since it happens suddenly, most pet owners are often in a state of confusion.

By calling the veterinary hospital, they can also provide instructions for first aid.Follow the instructions of the veterinary hospital.

Transport to the veterinary clinic

After calling the veterinary clinic, quickly prepare for transport. Cool the body while moving to the clinic.

Summary

In the coming season, not only humans but also cats are at a very high risk of heatstroke. Most cats are likely indoor cats, but be sure to use air conditioning when you go out. Instead of directing the air conditioning directly at the cat, adjust it so that the cool air circulates throughout the room. Cats also need a place to escape from the air conditioning. Drinking water is also important for preventing heatstroke. Place water bowls in several locations.

If your cat does suffer from heatstroke, don't panic. Provide first aid immediately and ask your vet for instructions.

It's going to get even hotter from now on. Let's make sure both humans and cats can stay comfortable.