Heatstroke is a danger to pets.

Regardless of the season, Thailand's weather is undeniably hot and humid. A common illness that people bring their pets to for treatment for is heatstroke, also known as "sunstroke" in Thailand. In Thailand's intensely sunny climate, even humans find it unbearable and need ways to cool down. Our pets experience the same heat, though they can't complain. If they suffer from heatstroke, it can be fatal! Today, we'll explain heatstroke so you can be prepared to deal with it if your pet develops it.

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What is Heatstroke?

"Heatstroke" in pets is a condition where the animal's body is unable to regulate its temperature, causing its body temperature to rise above normal, often exceeding 41 degrees Celsius. This increased heat negatively impacts the functioning of various internal organs. This disease can affect all types of pets, especially dogs and cats, because they typically only have sweat glands on their paws and noses. Therefore, they rely primarily on breathing and panting to regulate their body temperature. If their bodies cannot dissipate heat quickly enough, heatstroke can occur.

Heatstroke is more common in dogs than cats, especially long-haired, thick-furred, and short-faced breeds. It's also easily triggered by external environmental factors such as hot and humid weather and being in stuffy, poorly ventilated areas. When an animal's body receives excessive heat, it becomes stressed, leading to decreased blood circulation, low blood pressure, and reduced heart rate. This impairs the body's natural heat dissipation mechanism, causing heat to accumulate and resulting in heatstroke. In severe cases, this can be fatal in dogs, cats, rabbits, and other animals.

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Symptoms of Heatstroke in Pets:


1. Body temperature exceeding 41 degrees Celsius or 106 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Panting, rapid breathing, difficulty breathing, or labored breathing.

3. Abnormally rapid or irregular heartbeat.

4. Drooling, wet nose and mouth.

5. Dark red gums.

6. Seizures, muscle tremors, unconsciousness, or even death.

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First Aid for Heat Stroke in Pets


Proper first aid for heat stroke in pets is something everyone should know. The key is to lower the animal's body temperature, but not too quickly. Follow these steps:

1. If your pet is in a hot, crowded place, immediately move them to a well-ventilated area. Remove any clothing or collars that are making them uncomfortable.

2. Use a damp cloth to wipe their body, including their paws, armpits, and groin, to help dissipate heat. Use room temperature water; do not use very cold or overly warm water, as this can cause shock.

3. Massage their legs to stimulate blood circulation.

After administering first aid, immediately take your pet to a veterinarian for a thorough diagnosis and treatment. Never administer medication without a veterinarian's consultation.

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How to Prevent Heat Stroke in Pets

Heat stroke often occurs during extremely hot and humid weather. Owners should frequently observe their pets, especially when they are running or exercising. If your dog is panting more than usual, it may be an early sign of heat stroke. Avoid putting your pet in hot, poorly ventilated areas, and provide them with water at all times. You can also offer them ice cubes to lick to help cool down.

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Heat stroke is a dangerous silent threat to pets. Let's not be so focused on COVID-19 that we neglect heat stroke in our pets. Because Thailand has consistently hot weather, heat stroke is a serious risk for animals. Therefore, owners should pay attention and observe their pets carefully. If any abnormalities occur, provide immediate first aid and take your pet to a veterinarian immediately.

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Thank you for the valuable information from Taling Chan Animal Hospital.