Beware of heatstroke

With temperatures starting to soar this week, our vet-led triaging service VidiVet has already had a call about a cat with suspected heatstroke. Heatstroke is where a cat’s internal body temperature rises to dangerous levels and they cannot cool themselves. Sadly, it can be fatal.

Cats are generally pretty good at managing the heat as long as they have access to places of varying temperature, shade and water. However, they are renowned for liking cosy places to sleep. Therefore, do be extra vigilant that they don’t accidentally get trapped in hot poorly ventilated areas like conservatories and greenhouses, having snuck in for a quick snooze.

If your cat has been sleeping somewhere warm and they show signs of restlessness, panting, sickness, drooling, confusion, diarrhoea or collapse, it’s essential you seek urgent veterinary help. Flat-faced cats and the very young and very old are more at risk of heatstroke.

If you suspect your cat has heatstroke, take action quickly. Remove them from the heated environment to somewhere cool immediately. Dampen their fur with lukewarm (not cold) water as emergency first aid. Call the vet and on route, keep the car cool. Once admitted, the team will continue to work to reduce your cat’s core temperature and will provide appropriate treatment and care according to the severity of your cat’s condition.

Prevention is better than cure! Help cats stay cool in hot weather by ensuring they have plenty of access to fresh, cool water and lots of shade and cool spots where they can rest.