Heatstroke, also called prostration or hyperthermia, is a condition in which the environment causes the core body temperature to rise. The normal temperature of your cat’s body should be between 101 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If your cat’s body temperature goes above 105, he or she needs to see a vet right away.
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Why do Cats Get Heatstroke?
Cats and dogs usually get when they are exposed to too much heat. Some of the most common things that cause are:
- Extremely hot outdoor temperature
- Lack of access to shade
- Trapped in a hot unventilated space
- Lack of access to water
Signs:
- Excessive Panting
- Uncoordinated movement
- Loss of Balance
- Vomiting
- Muscle Tremors
- Drooling
- Excessive grooming
- Restless behavior
- Sweaty feet
- Seizure/unconsciousness
How Your Vet Will Treat Your Cat?
Your vet will do what he or she can to get your cat’s body temperature back to normal. You could use cool water or ice packs to do this. In some cases, oxygen therapy may also be needed. If heatstroke is caught early and treated right away, cats can get better quickly.
Heatstroke is very dangerous to a cat’s health. Before letting your cat go back home, your vet will check for signs of organ damage and other serious problems. In some cases, organ damage doesn’t show up for a few days. If your cat just got over heatstroke, keep a close eye on it for signs of illness for a few days.
Preventing Heatstroke in Cats
To keep your cat from getting heatstroke, always give it a cool, shady place to relax on hot days. Also, make sure your cat has plenty of fresh, clean water to drink, and never leave your pet in a hot car or room by itself.
Read More: Heatstroke in Dogs
