As the UK braces for a heatwave with temperatures expected to reach 38°C, pet owners are being urged to take extra precautions to protect their animals. Unlike humans, dogs and cats cannot sweat, making them highly vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. However, some breeds are at greater risk than others.
Flat-Nosed Breeds Most Vulnerable
Experts at pet insurance provider Insure Your Paws have identified flat-nosed breeds as the most susceptible to heat stress. Breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, and Persian cats struggle to regulate their body temperature because their shortened airways make it harder to pant effectively. Panting is a primary cooling mechanism for dogs and cats.
“Flat-nosed breeds are particularly at risk during hot weather because they cannot pant as efficiently, which can lead to overheating quickly,” a spokesperson for Insure Your Paws said.
Warning Signs of Heatstroke
Pet owners should watch for symptoms of heatstroke, including heavy panting, restlessness, excessive drooling, and loss of coordination. If any of these signs appear, owners should move their pet to a cool area, provide fresh water, and contact a veterinarian immediately.
Tips for Keeping Pets Cool
Insure Your Paws recommends walking dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower. The ground can become dangerously hot during the day; the five-second test—placing a hand on the pavement for five seconds—can determine if it is safe for paws. If it is too hot for a hand, it is too hot for a pet.
Never leave pets in a car or conservatory. On a 22°C day, the inside of a car can reach 47°C within an hour, which can be fatal. Ensure pets always have access to shade and fresh air.
Flea Prevention Reminder
Another lesser-known tip is to stay on top of flea and tick treatments, as these pests multiply rapidly in hot weather. Regular treatments can prevent discomfort for pets and stress for owners.
