Effective Heatstroke Treatment for Dogs and Cats: Quick
Firstly, let's understand the concept of heatstroke. It is a disease characterized by high fever, dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, and dysfunction of the nervous system. Heatstroke is a group of clinical syndromes that may occur due to the body's temperature regulation disorder when exposed to high temperatures or when engaging in physical activity in a hot environment. Depending on the pathogenesis and clinical manifestations, heatstroke is typically categorized into three types: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat (sunstroke). These conditions can develop sequentially or overlap.
Why does heatstroke cause various symptoms?
When a cat or dog is in a stable state, their rectal temperature should be between 38.0 and 39.0 degrees Celsius. If the temperature exceeds 40.0 degrees Celsius, there may be central nervous system dysfunction. At 41.0 degrees Celsius, permanent brain damage can occur, and at temperatures above 43.0 degrees Celsius, severe multiorgan damage can result, increasing the risk of mortality. Early signs of heatstroke may include excessive panting, extreme thirst, a rapid heart rate, a bright red tongue, and pale gums.
After an animal experiences prolonged high temperatures, it can lead to gastrointestinal damage, mucosal sloughing, and gastrointestinal bleeding. The nervous system may experience seizures due to heatinduced nerve cell damage and tissue hypoxia. The liver may suffer from ischemic necrosis of liver cells, bile stasis, decreased glycogenolysis, and glycogenesis. The cardiovascular system may experience direct heat damage to myocardial cells, tissue ischemia, and arrhythmia. The respiratory system may damage pulmonary endothelial cells, increase pulmonary vascular resistance, cause alveolar edema, hemorrhage, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. The musculoskeletal system may suffer from heatinduced cell damage and rhabdomyolysis.
Heatstroke has certain breedspecific risks. Dogs with round heads, such as English Bulldogs, Pugs, Shih Tzus, and Lion Dogs, are most susceptible. Some breeds, like Labrador Retrievers, Boxers, Rottweilers, and Saint Bernards, are also at risk of breedspecific laryngealtracheal paralysis, which can increase the likelihood of heatstroke. Therefore, pet owners of roundheaded, shortnosed dogs should be particularly vigilant as summer approaches. Similarly, shortnosed cats like Persians and Himalayans should also be monitored closely.
What should we do if our pets suffer from heatstroke?
First and foremost, we must act within the golden 30minute window when high fever occurs. We can rinse the animal's entire body with cold water on areas with no fur to lower their temperature, particularly the armpits, chest, and abdominal areas without fur. It is crucial to avoid using ice, as extremely low temperatures can cause peripheral vasoconstriction and reduce blood circulation, increasing the burden on the cardiovascular system.
Secondly, we can move the affected pet to an airconditioned room with the AC set to a low temperature to achieve a surrounding environment temperature similar to the air temperature. Ensure good air flow to create convection and dissipate heat.
Finally, after cooling the pet, it is essential to contact a veterinarian immediately, even if the pet responds well to cooling treatments. Heatstroke can lead to severe internal damage, so it is vital to have your pet examined by a veterinarian to ensure there are no fatal complications before considering them safe.
Tip: For a detailed understanding of how to treat heatstroke in cats and dogs, click on "Pet Heatstroke Emergency Methods" for more information.
