Overheating is as dangerous for animals as it is for people.
If you see your pet breathing rapidly, staggering or lethargy, sudden display of such symptoms could be a warning sign they are feeling dangerously hot.
Diarrhoea, vomiting, weakness, impaired consciousness, as well as panting or excessive salivation, can also be signs of this, according to the Berlin Animal Welfare Association.
Owners should react immediately in such cases. The best course of action is to take your pet to a cool place as quickly as possible and give it cold water.
You should then contact or visit a vet straight away. Acting quickly in hot weather can save a pet’s life.
If pets are left alone in the home on warm days, owners should be aware that conservatories and enclosed rooms in particular can become extremely hot – more so in top-floor flats, says the Animal Welfare Association.
Cages or enclosures for birds and small animals must never be left in direct sunlight. Enclosed houses and plastic covers without ventilation can be particularly dangerous.
When looking for a shady spot, pet owners should bear in mind that the sun moves across the sky throughout the day – so enclosures and cages should not be placed directly behind a window pane either.
Cats and dogs also need places to retreat to at home in hot weather. Give them access to cool rooms such as the bathroom, hallway or cellar.
Damp cloths, shallow water bowls or cool tiles are also helpful.
To prevent your pet from overheating, it is also important that the animals have several bowls with plenty of cool water available.
Wet food can also help dogs and cats to stay hydrated. – dpa
