May 27, 2025

Top 10 Signs of Heatstroke in Cats and Dogs

Worried about heatstroke in your cat or dog in the UAE summer?

In the UAE, summer isn’t just hot — it’s hazardous. With daily highs soaring past 48°C (118°F), your pets are at serious risk of heatstroke, especially when left outside for too long or even during a short walk on hot pavement.

Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency for both dogs and cats. It can lead to brain damage, organ failure, or death within minutes if untreated. And because our pets can’t tell us how they feel, we need to act fast — and smart — to keep them safe.

What is heatstroke in pets?

Heatstroke (also called heat exhaustion or heat stress) occurs when your pet’s body
temperature rises beyond their ability to cool themselves. Dogs and cats cool down differently than humans — they don’t sweat through their skin. Dogs primarily pant to regulate temperature, while cats groom themselves to create cooling evaporation.

This makes them much more vulnerable, especially in hot climates like the UAE, where humidity levels can also prevent effective cooling.

Top 10 Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats

Early detection can save your pet’s life. If you notice any of these symptoms, act immediately:

Excessive Panting or Drooling
Often the first and most visible sign in dogs. Cats may drool or breathe rapidly through an open mouth (which is abnormal).
Bright Red or Pale Gums and Tongue
Mucous membranes may change color due to overheating.
Glazed, Unfocused Eyes
A sign of disorientation and rising internal temperature.
Weakness, Lethargy or Wobbliness
Difficulty walking or standing may indicate muscle fatigue or collapse.
Rapid Heartbeat
Your pet’s body is working overtime to try and cool itself down.
Vomiting or Diarrhea
May contain blood in severe cases and indicate gastrointestinal distress.
Increased Body Temperature (Above 39.5°C / 103°F)
A rectal thermometer reading above this range is dangerous.
Restlessness or Signs of Distress
Pacing, whining, hiding, or seeking cool areas.
Collapse or Fainting
A red alert that your pet needs urgent veterinary intervention (EMERGENCY VETS)
Seizures or Unresponsiveness
In severe cases, this can mean brain damage or fatal organ failure.

What to do if you suspect heatstroke in your pet

Time is critical. Here are the immediate steps to take if your dog or cat shows signs
of overheating:

Move them to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned area. Remove them from the heat source right away.
Apply cool (not ice-cold) water to their belly, paws, and underarms. Use wet towels or a spray bottle. Never use ice directly — it can constrict blood vessels and slow cooling.
Offer small amounts of cool water to drink. Don’t force water into their mouth — allow them to drink if they’re able.
Place a fan nearby or drive with the AC on full blast.
Take them to the vet immediately. Don’t wait to “see if they improve.” Internal damage can happen silently.

Every minute counts. Permanent damage can happen in as little as 10–15 minutes.

Did You Know?

Brachycephalic breeds like French Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Persian cats are at double the risk due to their narrow airways.
Even well-hydrated, healthy pets can experience heatstroke during morning or evening walks on hot pavement.
Leaving a pet in a car, even for 5 minutes, can raise internal temperatures to fatal levels — even with the windows cracked.

Prevention tips for heatstroke in pets!

Living in the UAE means taking extra precautions for your pets’ health during the summer months:

✅ Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening
✅ Avoid hot pavements — test with your hand for 5 seconds
✅ Keep pets indoors with air conditioning during peak heat hours
✅ Always provide fresh, cool drinking water
✅ Never leave pets in parked cars or outdoor balconies
✅ Use cooling vests or mats for extra heat protection
✅ Watch for signs of dehydration: sunken eyes, dry nose, lethargy
✅ Groom long-haired pets regularly to prevent overheating
✅ Register your pet’s health records, behavior notes, and emergency contacts for quick action

How Where My Paws At Helps Protect Pets in the UAE

In the UAE, where lost pets in the heat can mean a race against time, the Where My Paws At app gives you life-saving technology and community support when it matters most.

With Where My Paws At, your pet is:

✅ Easily identifiable even without a microchip, thanks to a smart QR tag
✅ Instantly connected to your local UAE network of rescuers and pet lovers
✅ Part of a real-time missing pet alert system
✅ Safer in case of heat-related disorientation or escape
✅ Linked to emergency contacts, vet info, and your pet’s profile all in one place

If your pet panics in extreme heat and slips out an open door or gate, they need a way home — fast.

UAE Pet Parents: Be Heat-Smart, Be Proactive

Heatstroke is preventable. But only if you stay informed, vigilant, and prepared. Whether you’re taking your dog for a walk in JBR or letting your cat sunbathe near the balcony, every decision matters during the brutal UAE summer.

Don’t wait until it’s too late.

👉 Download the Where My Paws At app
👉 Register your pet today
👉 Order your smart tag now

Because when minutes matter, technology + community = protection.

Emergency Preparedness: What to Do if Your Pet Goes Missing

Losing a pet is a nightmare for any pet owner, but acting quickly can improve your chances of finding them.

Immediate Steps to Take:

Check your surroundings – Look in hiding spots, especially for cats.
Use Where My Paws At – Report your lost pet on the app and notify the pet community in your area.
Contact local vets & shelters – Alert them with a description and a recent photo.
Use social media – Post on local pet groups and forums to widen the search.

How Where My Paws At Enhances Pet Safety in the UAE

What is Where My Paws At?

Where My Paws At is the first and only pet safety app in the UAE, designed to help pet parents keep their pets safe. It offers features such as:

Lost & Found Pet Alerts: Instantly notify the community if your pet goes missing, increasing the chances of a quick reunion.
Pet Profile Creation: Store essential pet details, including medical records, microchip info, and emergency contacts.
Location-Based Services: Find nearby vets, pet-friendly places, groomers, and essential pet services.
Community Connection: Connect with other pet owners, share experiences, and get advice on pet care and safety.

By registering your pet on Where My Paws At, you take an extra step in ensuring their safety and making the UAE a safer place for pets.

Keeping your cat or dog safe in the UAE requires awareness, preparation, and proactive parenting. From heat safety and pet-proofing your home to using technology like Where My Paws At, these steps will help ensure your furry friend stays happy and secure.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a stress-free and safe life with your pet in the UAE. Stay vigilant, stay informed, and most importantly, shower your pet with love and care!

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