You can help prevent heatstroke (Image: jj8zpchue7 / Getty)
Cat owners are being urged to act quickly as a heatwave tightens its grip across the UK. Soaring temperatures pose a serious threat to thousands of pets, particularly those at risk of developing heatstroke.
The condition is extremely dangerous and can lead to severe dehydration, organ failure and even death. In most cases, heatstroke in cats occurs when they become accidentally trapped in a hot, poorly ventilated space, such as a shed or garage. Certain breeds are also particularly vulnerable, as they struggle more than others to regulate their body temperature.
Should your cat display any symptoms of heatstroke, begin cooling them down straight away and seek veterinary advice immediately.
Swift action could prove vital, as the earlier your cat is cooled, the greater their chances of making a full recovery. The PDSA said: “Normal body temperature for a cat ranges between 38.1-39.2°C (100.5-102.5°F), this can get a bit higher if they have a fever from being unwell.
“However, if your cat’s body temperature goes above 40°C/104°F they are at risk of heatstroke, which can cause severe dehydration, seizures, blood clotting problems, organ damage, coma and death.”
Cat breeds most at risk of heatstroke
Persians
These cats are particularly prone to heatstroke owing to their flat faces and thick, dense coats. The PDSA noted: “Cats get rid of significant amounts of body heat through their nose as they breathe out.
“Brachycephalic (flat-faced) cats such as Persians, struggle to release heat this way because they have much less space inside their nose. This puts them at a much higher risk of heatstroke, even on seemingly cool days.”
Much like Persian cats, this breed is particularly susceptible to heat exhaustion and heatstroke due to their flat faces and thick, heavy fur.
Despite having a shorter coat, these flat-faced cats can also struggle to regulate their body temperature even outside of a heatwave.
This breed also features a shortened nose, which can place them at a greater risk of heatstroke.
Characterised by a shortened nose and narrow nostrils, these cats can experience breathing difficulties, making heat management particularly challenging for the breed.
Their long, dense coats and thick undercoat can make this breed vulnerable in warm weather. Their fur traps heat readily, and the risk of heatstroke is heightened further if the cat is overweight.
Their substantial double coats and large build can cause body heat to become trapped. Since cats perspire through their paws and cool themselves through grooming, extreme heat can prove particularly demanding for this breed.
Maine Coon and Persian cats are at risk due to their thick coats (Image: Peter König / Getty)
Signs of heatstroke in cats
The common signs of heatstroke in cats include:
- Panting and fast breathing
- Bright/dark red or sometimes very pale gums
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea (sometimes containing blood)
- Weakness
- Confusion
- Wobbliness and collapse
- Seizures
- Blindness
- Unconsciousness
How to prevent heatstroke in cats
The PDSA has laid out key steps you can take to prevent heatstroke in cats. These include:
- Making sure they have access to shade and water at all times
- Always check sheds, greenhouses, conservatories and cars before shutting them
- Never leave cats in a hot room or somewhere with poor ventilation
- Never leave cats in a car on a warm day
- Avoid travelling with your cat when it’s hot
- Keep them at a healthy weight, as overweight cats find it more difficult to stay cool