Can cats overheat? Many people may not know that cats need a cool environment during the summer just like dogs and other animals.
Unlike dogs, cats do not have sweat glands and cannot cool themselves down by panting.
This means that cats need an air-conditioned environment to keep them from becoming overheated.
Heat Stroke in Cats
When the weather starts to heat up, it is important for pet owners to be aware of the risk of heatstroke in their animals.
Heatstroke can occur when a cat’s body temperature rises above its normal range of 101-102 degrees Fahrenheit.
The most common symptoms of heatstroke in cats are excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy.
If left untreated, heatstroke can lead to organ failure and death.
In extreme cases, veterinarians may need to induce vomiting or perform other emergency measures in order to save the cat’s life.
Owners can help prevent their cats from developing heat stroke by keeping them cool and hydrated during hot weather, providing plenty of shade and ventilation, and never leaving them in a parked car.
Hyperthermia in Cats
Hyperthermia in cats is most commonly seen in the summertime when the temperature outdoors rises and there is little relief indoors.
With air conditioning being more common in homes and cars, one might think that hyperthermia would be less of a problem.
However, as many pet owners know, cats like to find warm places to sleep, often choosing locations near or even on top of sources of heat.
This can lead to dangerous overheating.
Primary Cause
Cats are able to maintain a normal body temperature through a variety of means, one of which is their ability to adapt their internal body temperature to the external environment.
The normal body temperature for a cat ranges from 100-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit, and cats are able to tolerate temperatures up to 107 degrees Fahrenheit before showing signs of heatstroke.
Cats living in warm, humid climates may be more susceptible to developing heat stroke at lower temperatures than cats living in more temperate climates.
Immediate Care
If your cat is panting, drooling excessively, or vomiting, he may be suffering from heat exhaustion.
The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) advises pet owners to take immediate action if they see these signs in their cats.
One way to cool down a cat with heat exhaustion is to place him in a cool room or use a cold compress on his head, neck, and chest.
Veterinary Care
When your cat is sick, the last thing you want to do is worry about how to get them the medical care they need.
Fortunately, there are a large number of animal hospitals in the area that can help take care of your cat.
In addition to providing medical care, these hospitals can also offer advice on how to take care of your cat at home and lower their temperature.
Other Causes
Cats with a short face (like Persians) or that are obese do not tolerate heat well and are more likely to develop hyperthermia.
It is common knowledge that cats have a high average body temperature of 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
However, what is not as commonly known is that cats with a short face (like Persians) or cats that are obese do not tolerate heat well and are more likely to suffer from heatstroke.
Signs of heatstroke in cats include panting, drooling, vomiting, lethargy, and seizures.
If you believe your cat is suffering from heatstroke, take him or her to the veterinarian immediately.
Living and Management
When the weather starts to warm up, it’s important to be aware of the risk of heat exhaustion in cats.
Just like people, cats can suffer from heat exhaustion when they’re exposed to high temperatures and humidity for too long.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion in cats include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures.
If you think your cat may be suffering from heat exhaustion, you should take him to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
It may take several days for evidence of organ damage to develop, so if your cat does not seem complacent or is having any other concerning symptoms, it’s best to get him checked out.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, there are a few things that you can do to help keep your cat cool in the summer.
Make sure to provide them with plenty of freshwater, put ice cubes in their water dish, and give them a shady spot to rest.
You can also give them a kitty pool to splash around in or wet down a towel for them to lay on. And if all else fails, you can always take them to the groomer to get a haircut!
FAQs
What temperature do cats overheat?
Cats overheat at around 107 degrees Fahrenheit.
What happens when cats overheat?
Cats can overheat if they’re left in a hot car, or if they’re outside in hot weather and don’t have access to shade and water.
Signs that a cat is overheating include excessive panting, drooling, and restlessness.
If you think your cat is overheating, move it to a cooler place and offer it water. If he doesn’t drink, take him to the vet.
Can cats overheat in hot weather?
Yes, cats can overheat in hot weather.
Cats are particularly susceptible to heatstroke because they can’t sweat as people do.
Signs that your cat is overheating include excessive panting, drooling, and restlessness.
If you think your cat is overheating, take him or her to a cool place and offer water. If the cat doesn’t improve, take it to a veterinarian.
Can cats overheat in the house?
Yes, cats can overheat in the house if it is too warm.
Make sure to keep your home at a comfortable temperature for your cat.
Can cats overheat under blankets?
Yes, cats can overheat under blankets.
This is because they can’t sweat as humans do, so they rely on panting and other means of cooling down to regulate their body temperature.
When they’re covered up with a blanket, they can’t do that as effectively, which can lead to overheating.
Can cats overheat?
Yes, cats can overheat.
They are especially susceptible to heat stroke in the summer months when the weather is hot and humid.
Signs that a cat is overheating include excessive panting, drooling, and lethargy. If you think your cat is overheating, take him to a vet immediately.
