When a pet doesn't receive enough hydration and electrolytes, he may become dehydrated, which can lead to organ failure and even death. Unfortunately, it doesn't take much for a pet to become dehydrated. Excessive heat can speed up the process and lead to your pet having a heatstroke. Fortunately, at Suburban Veterinary Clinic in Maple Heights, we treat dehydration and heatstroke in pets.
The Importance of Hydration
First and foremost, around 60 percent of your pet's body mass is water. Your dog or cat's joints require water for lubrication. Water is also necessary to carry vitamins and other nutrients throughout your pet’s bloodstream. Plus, water flushes waste products from your pet’s system. Your pet's cells, tissue, and organs require water to function properly. These are only some of the reasons your pet requires proper hydration.
How Heatstroke Occurs
Heatstroke occurs when your pet has been exposed to high temperatures for prolonged periods. It often comes with dehydration. Your pet's body cannot control the temperature.
Signs Your Pet Has Heatstroke
Once a heatstroke occurs, your pet may have hot or dry skin. Your pet may become dizzy or disoriented. Muscle cramps and weakness may happen. Nausea and vomiting can develop from heatstroke as well. For some pets, seizures will occur as the result of heatstroke. It is also possible for your pet to become confused, stagger, or faint.
Signs Your Pet Is Dehydrated
You may notice that your pet is moving around less if he is dehydrated. He may have difficulty standing. Your pet's nose may be dry and he will have less skin elasticity. You will notice that your pet is panting, experiencing a lack of appetite, or vomiting.
When to Take Your Pet in for Dehydration and Heatstroke
If your pet has a temperature over 104, apply a cool cloth on your pet until his temperature is under 104. Make sure you carefully cool your pet down. If your pet has signs of heatstroke, you want to immediately get him to the vet. However, if your pet only has signs of heat exhaustion, he will usually recover. You should just watch your pet for the next 48 if he didn't have a heatstroke.
Contact Our Veterinarian in Maple Heights, OH
With a pet heatstroke, your pet could suffer from long-term consequences. We recommend knowing the signs of heatstroke and seeking immediate assistance. Call Dr. Terry at Suburban Veterinary Clinic today at (216) 662-6117 or reach us through our website by using our online contact form for non-emergencies.
