How to help your pet survive the heat?

A summer guide for dog and cat owners from Maxi Zoo

High summer temperatures pose a challenge not only for humans. Dogs and cats cope much worse with the heat than their owners, and overheating can pose a serious threat to them. How can you recognize the first signs of dehydration? When can a walk be dangerous? How can you keep your pet cool? We offer tips on how to care for your pet on hot days.

When the temperature outside exceeds 30°C, most of us seek shade, cool drinks, and ways to lower our body temperature. Pets, however, have significantly less ability to naturally regulate their body temperature. Dogs cool their bodies primarily by panting, and cats, although they cope better with high temperatures, are also susceptible to dehydration and overheating. Special attention should be paid to puppies, kittens, elderly and obese animals, and breeds such as pugs, French bulldogs, and Persian cats.

The foundation of summer care is proper hydration. A bowl of fresh water should be available 24/7, and in hot weather, it's a good idea to change it more frequently. For cats, fountains that encourage drinking through water movement can be helpful. Physically active animals or those that spend a lot of time outdoors may need additional support in the form of hydration products and isotonic supplements designed for animals. A wide selection of these products is available at Maxi Zoo stores across Poland.

Equally important is providing your pet with a safe way to cool down. Cooling mats can be helpful, as they allow your pet to regulate its body temperature while resting. Dogs also often enjoy swimming in garden pools or playing in water. However, remember not to pour very cold water over a heated pet, as the sudden change in temperature can be a shock to the body.

During hot weather, it's also worth modifying your daily activity plan. Early morning and late evening walks are safest, when sidewalks and streets aren't too hot. Be especially careful with asphalt, which can reach temperatures dangerous to dogs' delicate paw pads on sunny days. It's best to limit intense play, running, or training during the hottest hours of the day.

Frozen dog treats are also becoming increasingly popular among owners. They can not only provide a tasty dietary addition but also provide a pleasant cooling effect. Ready-to-freeze treats extend licking and chewing time, providing your pet with additional activity while relaxing at home. However, it's important to remember that even these treats should only be a supplement to a balanced diet and won't replace regular hydration.

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Hot weather requires increased vigilance from owners. Excessive panting, apathy, weakness, coordination issues, or a lack of interest in water can all indicate overheating. In such cases, the animal should be moved to a cool place as soon as possible, provided with access to water, and a veterinarian should be contacted.