Heatstroke in Pets: Keeping Cats and Dogs Safe in Pakistan's Summer
Pakistani summers can be deadly for pets. The warning signs of heatstroke, what to do right away, and how to prevent it.
By Tailswatch Team · 9 October 2026 · 1 min read
Quick answer: Heatstroke signs include heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, vomiting and weakness. Move your pet to shade, cool them with cool (not ice-cold) water and a fan, and go to a vet straight away. Never leave a pet in a parked car.
Warning signs
- Heavy, fast panting
- Thick drooling
- Bright red or pale gums
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Wobbling, collapse or confusion
What to do right now
- Move your pet into shade or a cool room.
- Wet them with cool water, not ice-cold.
- Put them in front of a fan.
- Offer small sips of water.
- Get to a vet, even if they seem better. Heatstroke can harm organs.
Who is most at risk?
- Flat-faced breeds: Persian cats, Pugs, Bulldogs and Shih Tzus.
- Puppies, kittens and older pets.
- Overweight pets.
- Thick-coated breeds.
How to prevent it
- Never leave a pet in a parked car, not even for a few minutes.
- Walk dogs early morning or late evening.
- Test the road: hold the back of your hand on it for 7 seconds. Too hot for you is too hot for paws.
- Keep water out in several places.
- Give them a cool, shaded spot indoors.
- During load-shedding, keep pets in the coolest room.
If you think your pet has heatstroke, contact a vet immediately.
Read next: What to feed your cat · New pet checklist
FAQs
What temperature is too hot for dogs? It depends on the dog, but in strong Pakistani summer heat, keep walks short and stick to early morning or evening.
Can cats get heatstroke? Yes, especially flat-faced breeds like Persians.
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