Many people assume that cats, with their desert origins, are pros at handling the heat. But in reality, they don't manage hot weather any better than other pets or even people. This brings up an important question: can cats get heatstroke?
They certainly can! While it might not be as frequent in cats compared to some other animals, heatstroke is an extremely dangerous and life-threatening situation for them. Without quick treatment, it can unfortunately be deadly in just a matter of hours.
Knowing the signs and symptoms of heatstroke in cats is incredibly important, as it could make all the difference in saving your feline’s life.
Heatstroke vs. Heat Exhaustion
Heatstroke is a very serious problem for cats and other animals in general, occurring when their body gets so hot it simply can't cool itself down. This critical stage, however, is usually preceded by an earlier phase called heat exhaustion.
You might notice a few signs if your cat is experiencing heat exhaustion. They might act restless, always trying to find a cooler spot. They could also be panting, drooling, and drinking more than usual, grooming themselves a lot, or having sweaty paws. These are all ways your cat tries to bring its body temperature down.
If a cat can't find a way to cool off, heat exhaustion can quickly turn into heatstroke. For cats, heatstroke officially happens when their body temperature climbs to 105°F (40.5°C) or higher. If you suspect your cat has heatstroke, it's critical to move them to a cool, airy place right away.
You can also start to cool them down by gently draping a slightly cool, damp towel over their back. If your cat seems comfortable, you can place another damp towel under their belly, and wiping a little cool water on their paw pads and ears will also help lower their temperature.
Offer your cat some cool water to drink, and after these steps, immediately call your veterinarian or the nearest emergency pet clinic.
Signs of Heatstroke in Cats
Cats are known for being pretty good at hiding when they're not feeling well, so it's extra important to observe your feline closely for any signs of heatstroke, especially during hot weather. While many signs of heatstroke are similar to what you'd see in dogs, cats have a couple of their own tell-tale early warnings.
For instance, as we touched on earlier when discussing heat exhaustion, you might observe your cat grooming themselves much more frequently than normal, as this is one of their instinctive ways to try and reduce body heat. Another early sign specific to cats is if they seem to be producing less urine.
In addition to these signs more specific to cats, other early indicators include panting, since cats don't typically breathe with their mouths open, which is a significant sign. They might also appear restless, constantly searching for a cooler area to lie down.
If their body temperature keeps rising, the symptoms will become more severe. Watch out for rapid breathing, an increased heart rate, and a change in the color of their gums. They might also start vomiting, appear disoriented and weak, or even collapse. In the most serious situations, muscle tremors or seizures can occur.
How Cats Can End Up with Heatstroke
Several situations can lead to a cat developing heatstroke. It's most often seen in cats who spend time outdoors, particularly on very hot and humid days, or when they don't have easy access to shade or fresh water. Even indoor cats can be at risk if they're suddenly let outside into high temperatures they're not accustomed to, or if the power goes out at home, leaving them without air conditioning or good ventilation.
Certain types of cats are also more vulnerable…
Flat-faced breeds, often called brachycephalic cats, can struggle with heat even on moderately warm days. Cats that are overweight, very young kittens (around four months old or younger), and senior cats are also at higher risk.
Additionally, cats with existing health problems, like diabetes, kidney disease, or conditions that make it hard for them to get to their water, are more susceptible. Those with neurological issues, such as a history of seizure, or heart and breathing problems, also need extra care in the heat.
Finally, some accidental situations can quickly become risky. Cats can sometimes get trapped inside a running clothes dryer, which can heat up rapidly. They can also be unintentionally left in a car, and even on a mild day, the temperature inside a vehicle can get dangerously hot very fast.
Preventing Heatstroke in Your Cat
As a cat owner, it's important to be aware of the dangers of heatstroke and take steps to keep your pet safe. Many of the same ideas for keeping dogs cool in hot weather also apply to cats.
Make sure your cat always has a comfortable and safe space, especially this summer when it's hot. This means providing different shady spots and always having fresh water available. For an extra cool spot, you might even consider getting a cooling mat for your cat to lie on if they seem to enjoy it.
It's also essential that your cat has a cool, well-ventilated area where they can rest. Encourage your cat to take it easy and relax during the hottest times of the day, as this can go a long way in preventing heatstroke.
Finally, if you like to play with your cat or if they enjoy exercise, try doing these activities when it's cooler, like in the early morning or later in the evening.
Common Questions About Cat Heatstroke
Q. Why might a vet perform a blood test if a cat has heatstroke?
A. In more serious cases of heatstroke, a cat’s internal organs, like the kidneys, can be affected. To look for problems like kidney damage or blood clotting, the vet will first check your cat’s condition. Then, they may do blood tests to see how serious the issue is and decide on the best treatment.
Q. How can I tell if my cat is too hot?
A. You might notice your cat is too hot if they begin panting, start looking for cooler places to lie down, or seem a little clumsy, sluggish, or just not themselves. Other serious signs that your cat is overheating include having trouble breathing, or if they start vomiting or have diarrhea, which might sometimes have blood in it. If you see these signs, it's a strong indication they are too warm.
Q. Can cats get better from heat exhaustion?
A. Yes, cats can definitely recover from heat exhaustion, especially if it's recognized and dealt with quickly. If you see your cat overheating, the first thing to do is move them out of the sun and into a shady or cooler spot with good airflow, perhaps using a fan.
Since heat can be very dangerous for cats, even fatal, it's always best to get your pet checked by a veterinarian as soon as possible if you suspect they're too hot.
