This summer is particularly hot in the Midwest with temperatures stuck in the 90s for days.  Seven Greater Chicago residents died in June as a result of the heat. But, heatstroke doesn't just affect humans. Your cat or dog is also at risk. Our pet hospital is trying to educate pet owners about the dangers of extreme heat to their pets.

What is Heatstroke? 

Hyperthermia, commonly called heatstroke, is a serious medical condition that describes a rise in the pet's body temperature as a result of being in a hot environment or from a fever or inflammation. Because pets don't sweat to cool their bodies like humans do, their body temperatures can rise much more quickly. Heatstroke requires immediate attention by a veterinarian. Left untreated, it can cause permanent damage and even death. This is why you should never leave a dog or cat unattended in a hot car even with the windows open.

Signs of heatstroke in pets include heavy, vigorous panting; disorientation and confusion; the pet's lying down and not wanting to get up; and dark red gums. Some short-nosed breeds of dogs and cats, such as pugs and bulldogs as well as Persian cats, are particularly susceptible to heatstroke. If you even suspect that your pet is having heatstroke, get them to an emergency vet as soon as possible. With prompt treatment at a pet hospital, many pets completely recover from this condition.

Emergency Veterinary Services is a full-service emergency vet in St. Charles that is open when your regular veterinarian is closed. We serve dogs, cats and other animals in the west Chicago suburbs of Batavia, Geneva, Aurora and Elgin.

Have you had experience with heatstroke in your cat or dog recently? Share your story with our readers by leaving a comment below.