Have you noticed a change in your pet's behavior when temperatures soar or during a severe heat wave?
Does he spend time in the shade, is he constantly out of breath, or does he behave differently?
Heat can pose a serious health risk even to animals.
While heatwaves are currently sweeping large parts of the world, and authorities in many countries are issuing health warnings amid sweltering temperatures, the emphasis is often on how to keep people safe.
But what about your pets?
You might assume that a well-cared-for animal is naturally protected from the heat — especially if it lives indoors or has access to shade.
However, high temperatures can pose serious risks even to pets, often in ways that are not immediately obvious.
Thirst and dehydration can also expose animals to serious health consequences.
What symptoms should you pay attention to?
According to the British animal welfare charity RSPCA, heavy panting, difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, lethargy and drowsiness are key signs that your dog is too hot.
The charity says dogs are ten times more likely to suffer from heat-related illnesses if they walk or run in hot weather than from overheating in cars.
This is because dogs have a very limited ability to regulate their own body temperature.
They don't sweat like humans – they just sweat out a very small amount of fluid through their paw pads – and having very thick fur means their core temperature can jump quickly in high temperatures.
Lebanese veterinarian Dr. Touraya Dabah Knaiser says that one of the most prominent symptoms that cats and dogs may exhibit is hyperventilation.
"They breathe rapidly and stick out their tongues," she says, adding that excessive drooling can also be a symptom associated with extreme heat.
She explains that while this behavior is somewhat normal in dogs, when observed in cats, it is an indicator of a real problem.
She also says that some animals that suffer severely from these symptoms may lose their balance or ability to walk properly, and the condition can progress to extreme fatigue or exhaustion.
She warns that some severe cases can lead to coma and even death, explaining: "High temperatures disrupt enzymes in their bodies, causing them to break down."
How does weather affect animal behavior?
Climatic fluctuations significantly affect animal behavior, whether during cold or warm weather.
The National Library of Medicine published a study in 2022 showing that cats and dogs are affected by severe weather.
In cold weather, their appetite increases, and their periods of activity and play increase.
The sounds of thunder and heavy rain could frighten them, causing them to isolate themselves or seek safety near people.
In warm weather, dogs and cats tend to sleep and rest for longer periods of time and eat less.
The study specifically showed that "weather conditions did not affect aggressive behavior and housebreaking in either dogs or cats."
How can you prevent your pet from overheating?
According to Dr. Kneiser, the most important measures to help protect pets from heat and dehydration are:
- Water – it is important to increase your pet's water intake during the summer. Ice cubes can be added to keep the water cool.
- Ventilation – Make sure your animals stay in areas with good airflow, whether this is achieved with open windows, air conditioning, or fans.
- Shade – Provide comfortable places away from direct sun, as animals that are adversely affected by heat always seek shade.
- Avoid leaving your pet outside during the highest summer temperatures, especially if you keep your dog in the yard or on the roof, as it could be exposed to high temperatures and dehydration.
- Avoid peak heat: It is better to take animals outside early in the morning or in the evening, and avoid midday.
- Shearing: It is necessary to shear or trim the thick fur of some animals.
- Do not leave animals in a car with the windows up or exposed to direct sunlight without protection.
What about the animals that live around us?
Summer heat increases rodent activity, which is often eliminated by street cats.
Birds that live all around us can help eliminate insects that are active in the summer.
But these animals, in turn, need water.
We can often see birds that have fallen or died in the extreme heat, or sparrows that gather around small pools of water to bathe when the heat is at its peak.
Many people leave small bottles of water in windows and on balconies to help birds quench their thirst.
Those who feed stray dogs and cats are also advised to leave a supply of clean water with their food.
What to do if your pet is overheated?
Dr. Kneiser says the first step is to lower the animal's body temperature - by pouring cold water over it.
It is important that the water is not too cold and you should avoid getting your head wet.
Move the dog to cooler areas or shade.
In certain cases, the next step is to take him to the vet immediately for examination and prompt treatment, especially if he loses consciousness or his condition worsens.
In extreme cases, dogs vomit and may faint, requiring emergency veterinary care.
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