Too Hot to Handle: Why Pet Size Matters During Heatwaves

With April in full swing and May right around the corner, the rising temperatures have become nearly unbearable for us and our pets. As heatwaves make their way across the country, it is important to stay cool and make sure our furry friends get to cool down and beat the heat too. 

You may be wondering, how does the heat impact pets and animals? Dr. Harsh Veerbhan, founder of WAAT Pet Clinic in Ghaziabad, explained that pets (especially dogs and cats) are more prone to heatstroke due to the absence of sweat glands, apart from a few in their paw pads. “Pets do not sweat like us.They cool themselves by panting, while cats also lick their bodies to regulate temperature. But in extreme heat, panting alone may not be enough,” he said

A pet’s size also plays a major role in how well they can cool off. For example, a small or toy breed of dog or cat can quickly overheat during a heatwave due to their smaller bodies and inability to dissipate heat quickly. Smaller breeds also suffer from dehydration at a quicker rate. 

You may think that larger dogs like retrievers may fare better in this scorching summer heat. However, while their larger bodies do help with heat dissipation, they can still be a victim of overheating.  “Their thicker coat can trap heat and increase the risk of heatstroke if left outside or made to perform too much physical activity,” said Dr. Harsh Veerbhan. 

According to Dr. Harsh Veerbhan, pet parents should look out for signs of heatstroke, which includes excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, or collapsing. If a pet or animal is exhibiting one or more of these symptoms, they should be rushed to a vet for medical attention.