Summer is an exciting time for your pets thanks to longer daylight hours and plenty of fun activities, but it can be a double-edged sword. Dogs and cats are more sensitive to higher temperatures, so you need to keep a sharp eye out for signs they’re not feeling well.
Arizona’s desert climate means summers get particularly sweltering, with average highs reaching 105°F in certain regions. Simply turning on your house fan may not be enough to help your dog or cat beat the heat.
Keep reading if you’re wondering when you should take your pet to an emergency vet during the summer or whether dogs and cats have different health warning signs. You’ll learn about the biggest risks to your cats and dogs, signs to look out for, and when to go to an urgent care vet.
What Health Risks Do Dogs and Cats Face in the Summer?
It’s not hard to see why pets need a little extra care in the summer heat. Their fur adds an extra layer of warmth, and they cannot sweat to the same extent as humans, making it difficult to cool off.
Here are the most common health risks to watch out for and ways to spot them fast.
Heat Stroke
Heat stroke occurs when your pet’s internal temperature becomes too high, making it difficult to expel excess heat in time. While dogs and cats usually pant to cool off, that may not be enough.
Dogs may be struggling with the heat if they display the following:
- Excessive panting
- Excessive drooling
- Reddened gums
- Bright red tongue
- Vomiting
- Struggling to walk or collapsing
- Trying to find shade
For cats, warning signs of heat stroke include:
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Lethargy
- Sweaty paws
- Vomiting
- Restless, agitated motions
Nipping mild symptoms of overheating can look like taking your dog to a shaded area, cutting a walk short, or visiting a cooling center. You can rub cats with a cold towel, refill their water bowl, or turn on a fan.
When Should I Take My Pet to an Emergency Vet?
If your pet is becoming noticeably lethargic or agitated or is throwing up, take them to your vet immediately. Your vet may provide them with IV fluids or oxygen therapy to counteract the heat stroke.
Dehydration
If your dog or cat isn’t getting enough water, they’ll quickly start showing signs of dehydration through their behavior or physical traits. This condition is serious and can lead to problems like kidney failure or loss of consciousness.
While some dehydration signs, such as shallow breathing and lethargy, mimic heat stroke, there are a few key differences.
Dogs can show they’re dehydrated with symptoms like:
- Excessive panting
- Lethargy
- Dry nose
- Dry gums
- Thick saliva
Meanwhile, cats that are dehydrated usually show signs like:
- Sunken eyes
- Sticky gums
- Constipation
- Lack of appetite
- Dry mouth
If you suspect your dog or cat is mildly dehydrated, offer very small amounts of water or a piece of ice to lick. Providing too much water at once may make them vomit, worsening their dehydrated state. Keep an eye out for signs of improvement, such as increasing energy, a cheerful mood, less panting, and a wetter mouth.
Burnt Paws
Paw pads may be tough, but they can still get injured. Burnt paws are one of the easier conditions to spot, as your dog or cat will make it clear they’re in pain almost immediately.
Mild burn symptoms can look like:
- Licking and biting their feet
- Limping
- Whimpering
- Discolored paws
- Redness
If there’s no blistering, peeling, or cracking, your pet sustained a mild burn and will likely recover on their own with some rest.
That said, keep a close eye out for more serious burn symptoms, such as:
- Bleeding
- Oozing pus
- Refusing to walk
- Missing part of the pad
- Strange odor
Paw burns are tricky to treat since your pet likely wants to run and play, increasing the risk of infecting the wound and making it worse. If the burn doesn’t show any serious symptoms, restrict your pet’s movement for a few days and watch the burn to make sure it doesn’t swell, peel, or blister.
If you notice worrisome symptoms, take your dog to the vet. They’ll likely prescribe your dog or cat antibiotics and wrap their paw pad to promote faster healing.
Sunburn
Many people believe only pets with very short fur get sunburns. While short-coated breeds are definitely the most susceptible, your pet can also get burned if they’re elderly, have sensitive skin, or spend a lot of time outdoors. Kittens and puppies are also susceptible due to their delicate skin, nose, and paw pads.
If you notice the following signs in your pet, you may be dealing with a sunburn:
- Rubbing and licking of the affected area
- Reddened and swollen skin
- Crusted or scaly skin that’s hot to the touch
You can treat mild sunburns at home with a damp cloth (but no ice packs) or a vet-approved cooling gel. An e-collar can help prevent your pet from licking the affected area until it heals.
Monitor any sunburn closely for oozing, peeling, or open sores. If you notice these signs—or behavioral changes like discomfort or restlessness—visit your emergency vet for treatment.
Vets will clean and dress the wound to help your pet heal faster. They may also give your pet pain relief medication.
Additional Hot Weather Safety Tips for Pets
Now that you’re familiar with the most common health concerns for your cat or dog during Arizona summers, it’s time to implement a proactive approach. The best way to handle dehydration, heat stroke, or burns is to prevent them from happening in the first place.
Even if you’re just heading to the park or enjoying a quick stroll along a nearby trail, keep these tips in mind.
Always Keep Extra Water on Hand
Whether you’re taking your dog on a walk or playing with your housecat in the living room, make sure they’re never low on water. Keep your pets’ bowls full or give them frequent breaks to lap up bottled water.
Take Your Pet for a Walk During Cooler Hours
If you like to take your dog to the park in the afternoon or carry your cat in a little cat backpack, consider rescheduling. Early morning hours and late evenings are far easier on their constitution than midday.
Double-check the weather forecast for any heat-related changes, such as a heat wave, before heading out.
Steer Clear of Pavements and Dark Asphalt
While lighter sidewalks may be easier on your dog’s feet, they can sometimes be too hot during midday, so it’s better to avoid them outright. Dark asphalt retains even more heat and is even worse.
Beware of artificial turf, hot sand, and metal surfaces, too. Opt for grass, gravel, or dirt trails when possible, or choose shady routes that don’t get as hot.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Sunshine with a Healthy Pet
While the hot weather and endless sunshine may seem rife with hazards, pet health issues are easy to avoid with a little preparation and vigilance. However, if you notice any warning signs in your cat or dog, it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Our veterinary team is ready to help you with a consultation or emergency care to keep your pet healthy and happy. Contact 1st Pet Veterinary Clinics today with your questions or to schedule a check-up in the Phoenix area.