Extreme heat events and intense worldwide heat are on the rise. Whether you agree with climate change or not, you’re sure to feel the heat sooner rather than later.
If you feel hot, then there’s a good chance your fur baby does, too. This is especially true if you have a dog or cat with a heavy coat. Speaking of your pet, have you ever wondered why you never see your dog sweat? Have you ever seen a cat sweating?
You’ve got the questions, and we have the answers. Read on to learn more about animal cooling mechanisms and how they work.
Can a Dog Sweat? Do Cats Sweat?
As humans, our bodies start to sweat when we get hot. This perspiration releases heat from our bodies, which cools us off. If you’ve ever wondered ‘do dogs sweat?’, then the short answer is ‘no’.
Dogs and cats do not have the same amount of sweat glands as humans. The only ones they do have are in their paw pads.
How Pets Stay Cool
So, if cats and dogs don’t sweat, then how do they cool off? This is especially curious considering cats and dogs do have a lot of fur. If you’re hot without a fur coat, then how do you think your pets feel?
The main way pets cool off is through panting. That’s why you’ll see your dog with their tongue out. This panting cools them off by releasing moisture from the mouth and lungs.
You likely haven’t seen a cat pant too much because cats usually stop before they get that hot. Cats can also induce evaporation and cooling by grooming themselves, though. So, that’s a preferred behavior for our feline companions.
Recognizing the Signs of an Overheated Senior Pet
Did you know that asphalt is often 30-50 degrees hotter than the air? That means your senior pet can get overheated fast if they’re walking on scalding asphalt. Look for the following signs of an overheating pet:
- Extreme panting
- Lethargy or apparent confusion
- Dark urine
- Dry nose and dry gums
- Collapse
If possible, then avoid asphalt. Are you worried your pet might slip on other surfaces? If so, then consider using our PawFriction Kit. That way, you and your pet can take walks with confidence.
How to Keep Your Pet Cool
Have you ever seen a dog sweat before? Of course not. What you likely have seen, though, are the signs of a cat or dog overheating. Why? Few pet owners understand and recognize the signs of a pet that’s too hot.
Now that you do know what to watch out for, you can take better care of your fur baby. And please remember that senior pets are more sensitive to heat than younger dogs and puppies. If you have an older pet, then you need to be vigilant with their wellbeing in the heat.
Keep your pet cool by providing water and avoiding extreme heat. Be sure to take breaks, too!
Are you looking for more products to help your senior pet thrive? If so, then we have you covered. Head over to our shop now to see all the products we have available.