Tropical temperatures

This is how you can help your cat and/or dog

With the current tropical temperatures, which are expected to continue into the weekend, we can conclude it’s a national heat wave. During this period it is extra important to provide the right care and attention for your pet. What measures can you take as an owner? Read it in this blog!

Create coolness at home during tropical temperatures

Both dogs and cats need shady areas during extreme heat. Make sure your pet has a shady
spot both indoors and outdoors. Close the curtains if necessary to create more coolness.

Avoid walking at the hottest moment of the day

Due to high temperatures, asphalt or sand can become extremely hot. Dogs can burn the pads of their feet during the walk because of this. You can check the temperature of the asphalt by placing your hand on the asphalt for seven seconds.

Water activities

Does your dog like to swim? Then take a dive together, in nature! Watch out for blue-green algae and botulism. Via www.zwemwater.nl you can see where you and your dog can swim safely. Another option is of course to fill a little pool in the garden with water. Make sure the water is not ice cold and that your dog does not ingest too much water. This can lead to water poisoning.

Be careful with wet food

Do you feed your cat/dog wet food? Make sure it is not exposed to warm temperatures for too long. This can cause spoiled food.

There is sunscreen for animals

Most animals will choose a shady spot themselves, but if your animal does expose itself to the sun for a longer period of time and has thin fur, use a special sunscreen for animals (do not use sunscreen for humans). You can use this on the most sensitive areas, such as the nose and the tips of the ears.

Be alert to overheating

Just like humans, animals can also overheat. Overheating of animals can lead to heat shock and can be very dangerous. Therefore, keep an extra eye on your pet(s) during hot temperatures. You can recognize overheating of a dog or cat by the following symptoms: rapid breathing, feeling hot, no appetite/energy, vomiting and red mucous membranes.

During a heat shock (severe overheating), you will notice a rapid heartbeat/breathing, pale mucous membranes, cold ears, nose and tail and you will notice that your dog or cat hardly responds to stimuli.

What can you do in this situation? You can help to reduce overheating by cooling your pet with a cool place, fresh drinking water (not too much) and wetting the head, ears, neck and paws (do not use ice-cold water). In case of heat shock, it is important to call the vet immediately.

Fresh drinking water

Last but not least: fresh drinking water. Your pet will probably eat a little less and drink more during hot days. Therefore, ensure sufficient fluid intake, but not too much. This can lead to water poisoning. Place the drinking water in a cool place to keep it nice and fresh. Did you know drinking water stays cool longer in marble and terrazzo bowls?

Above mentioned are some tips to make your cat or dog as comfortable as possible. In addition to these tips, we also recommend of course that you enjoy the summer and the company of your pet!