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Mid- summer is here and the temperatures are well into the 90’s F (30’s C) all across North America. In our region of the country, the DC metro area, temperatures rise quickly and do not cool down much at night.
Can this heat affect our cats? Cats do not sweat and cool down by panting. If your cat is mostly indoors, they are not acclimated to heat. If they over exert themselves outside, they can loss ability to regulate their body temperature. What is a scenario where that can happen? A classic scenario is if a dog or other animal chases your cat.
Cats that are left in cars are at extreme risk this time of year. The temperatures rise rapidly in a closed car in the summer. The temperature can go well over 100F (40C) in a matter of minutes. So even though you think you are going to run a quick errand, those few minutes can be deadly.
One of the signs of being overheated is a recumbent cat that is panting. They may not be responsive to you.
In this event you should contact your local emergency clinic. You can use cool water to help decrease the core body temperature. DO NOT use ice water. It causes the veins to constrict and actually decreases the heat transfer.
Enjoy your summer, but be careful about when you take you cat with you in the car. Do not leave them alone. The best treatment is prevention.
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