Heatstroke in Cats: Lifesaving Steps!

Heatstroke is a medical emergency that can threaten the life of your cat in just a few minutes. Unlike humans, cats do not sweat effectively and therefore are more vulnerable to high temperatures. This article guides you through the signs to recognize, immediate actions to take, and preventive measures to protect your feline companion.

What is heatstroke in cats?
Cats most at risk
Symptoms to watch for!
First aid: act quickly and correctly
Veterinary treatment
Prevention: life-saving gestures

Cat who is hot in front of a small table fan

What is heatstroke in cats?

Heatstroke occurs when your cat's body temperature exceeds 40°C, with a critical threshold at 41.5°C. At this stage, irreversible organ damage can occur. Cats naturally regulate their temperature between 38°C and 39.2°C, but their cooling capability is limited compared to ours.

Cats most at risk

Some felines are more vulnerable to heat:

Brachycephalic breeds (Persians, British Shorthair) whose short airways limit panting efficiency;
Kittens whose thermal regulation system is immature;
Senior cats who have a reduced ability to adapt to temperature changes;
Overweight cats who generate more body heat;
White or hairless cats more sensitive to sun rays;
Cats suffering from heart or respiratory problems.

Symptoms to watch for!

Here are the signs that should alert you immediately:

Rapid breathing and panting (very unusual sign in a cat);
Excessive drooling;
Bright red or bluish gums and tongue;
Agitation or, on the contrary, extreme lethargy;
Unsteady walk, confusion;
Vomiting and diarrhea;
Abnormal warmth to the touch (especially head and ears);
Dilated pupils.

If these symptoms appear, you have less than 20 minutes to act before the situation becomes critical.

First aid: act quickly and correctly

In case of heatstroke, every minute counts:

Immediately move your cat to a cool and quiet place;
Moisten their body with a towel soaked in lukewarm water (20-22°C) - NEVER ice water which would cause thermal shock;
Focus on the paws, belly, and neck, avoid the head;
Offer fresh water to drink without forcing;
Direct a fan towards your cat to speed up evaporation;
Immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service.

Do not wait for the situation to improve before consulting a veterinarian. Even if your cat seems to recover, internal complications can occur within the following 48 hours.

Veterinary treatment

The veterinarian will take care of your cat with:

Controlled cooling;
Rehydration through intravenous infusion;
Monitoring of vital functions;
Medications to prevent complications (cerebral edema, coagulation problems);
Tests to assess organ damage.

Prevention: life-saving gestures

To prevent heatstroke in your cat, it is essential to regularly apply sunscreen, especially during the hottest hours of the day, to protect their delicate skin. It is also recommended to ensure they stay indoors during these times when the temperature can be overwhelming.

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Make sure to provide a cool and shaded area at home, where they can rest comfortably. Consider offering fresh water at all times to keep them hydrated, as good hydration is crucial to prevent the risk of dehydration.

Finally, closely observe their behavior: if they seem lethargic or have trouble breathing, do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian immediately.

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Heatstroke in cats is a serious medical emergency that can be fatal in minutes. Quickly recognizing symptoms and taking the right actions can save your companion's life. During hot periods, remain vigilant, especially if your cat belongs to at-risk categories. At Zoomalia, we offer a full range of products to help your cat stay cool during hot periods: ZOLIA cooling mats, thermos bowls, and water fountains for cat, which encourage hydration. Have you ever noticed signs of excessive heat in your cat? What measures do you take to protect them during summer? Share your experience in the comments.