【Extreme Heat】Leaving Dogs and Cats Under the Scorching Sun... Symptoms and Measures for Heatstroke Every Pet Owner Should Know

【Extreme Heat】Leaving Dogs and Cats Under the Scorching Sun... Symptoms and Measures for Heatstroke Every Pet Owner Should Know

2025年07月15日 17:31

Table of Contents

  1. Japan's Scorching Heat: A Threat to Pets

  2. Why Dogs and Cats Are Prone to Heatstroke

  3. Symptoms of Early, Mid, and Severe Heatstroke

  4. First Aid Manual to Save Lives

  5. For Dogs: Best Times for Summer Walks

  6. For Cats: Where Are the Indoor Risks?

  7. Seven Specific Measures to Prevent Heatstroke

  8. Common Misunderstandings by Pet Owners and Their Corrections

  9. Consultation List for Heatstroke Cases

  10. Expert Advice on Creating a Heat-Resistant Environment

  11. In Conclusion: Never Forget Pets Are "Family"

  12. List of Reference Articles (External Links, Chronological Order)




1. Japan's Scorching Heat: A Threat to Pets

Japan's summers are becoming increasingly harsh. As of July 2025, there have been days in Tokyo recording temperatures as high as 38°C, leading to numerous cases of heatstroke among humans. Meanwhile, veterinary clinics are seeing an increase in dogs and cats being brought in with symptoms like lethargy and heavy panting.

Leaving pets in cars, on balconies during the day, or in rooms without air conditioning for extended periods can be fatal due to a moment of carelessness by the owner.



2. Why Dogs and Cats Are Prone to Heatstroke

  • Dogs Can't Sweat
    They primarily regulate their body temperature through panting, but in Japan's hot and humid climate, this method becomes significantly less effective.

  • Cats Are Said to Be Heat-Resistant, But...
    While they originate from desert regions, factors like "closed indoor spaces" and "floor temperatures" can pose risks.

  • Close Proximity to the Ground
    Asphalt temperatures can exceed 60°C, causing pets to suffer from heatstroke more quickly than humans.



3. Symptoms of Early, Mid, and Severe Heatstroke

StageMain Symptoms
EarlyRapid breathing, excessive drooling, lethargy
MidNausea, staggering, red gums
SevereLoss of consciousness, seizures, vomiting, coma

*In severe cases, the mortality rate rises sharply. Early detection and response are crucial.*



4. First Aid Manual to Save Lives

  1. Move immediately to a shaded or cool place

  2. Pour water on the neck, underarms, and paws

  3. Use ice packs or chilled towels

  4. Do not force water intake; keep the pet calm

  5. Contact and visit the nearest veterinary clinic promptly



5. For Dogs: Best Times for Summer Walks

  • Ideal times are 5-7 AM and 7-9 PM

  • Check asphalt temperature with your hand first

  • Always carry water and ensure frequent hydration

  • Wash paws with cold water after walks to lower body temperature



6. For Cats: Where Are the Indoor Risks?

  • Sunny bay windows: High temperatures like a greenhouse

  • High places where air conditioning doesn't reach

  • Trapped heat behind closets and furniture


Countermeasures:

  • Use blackout curtains and cool mats

  • Circulate air with fans or circulators

  • Ensure multiple "escape routes"



7. Seven Specific Measures to Prevent Heatstroke

  1. Set air conditioning to around 28°C and consider running it 24/7

  2. Place fresh water in multiple locations

  3. Ensure cool spots are available when going out

  4. Use summer cooling mats

  5. Consider time and ground temperature for walks

  6. Utilize monitoring cameras and smart appliances when away

  7. Daily health checks (appetite, urine, energy)



8. Common Misunderstandings by Pet Owners and Their Corrections

  • ❌ "My pet is strong against heat" → ✅ Anyone can suffer from heatstroke

  • ❌ "It's okay because it's shaded" → ✅ Humidity is also a concern

  • ❌ "It's fine to leave them in the car for a short while in the morning" → ✅ Dangerous temperatures can be reached in just 10 minutes



9. Consultation List for Heatstroke Cases

TypeContact
Veterinary ClinicRegular or Night Emergency (e.g., TRVA)
Pet Emergency Dial03-5789-8921 (Veterinarian advice)
Municipal Animal Consultation DeskRefer to each prefecture's website



10. Expert Advice on Creating a Heat-Resistant Environment

Voices from Veterinarians and Pet Sitters:

  • "Insulation mats and air circulation are effective"

  • "Extra caution for elderly dogs, brachycephalic breeds, and overweight pets"

  • "Those living alone should use monitoring apps"



11. In Conclusion: Never Forget Pets Are "Family"

What might be "just a hot day" for humans can be "a life-threatening heatwave" for pets. Even if it means higher electricity bills for air conditioning or limited walking times, nothing is more important than life. To avoid regretting "if only I had done this...," now is the time to take action.



🔍 List of Reference Articles (External Links, Chronological Order)


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