Seasonal Tips·21 April 2026·5 min read
Heatstroke in Pets: Recognise It Fast, Act Faster
In Kolkata summer, heatstroke kills. Here's what to look for and the first 5 minutes that can save a life.
Why heatstroke is so dangerous\n\nDogs cool themselves through panting; cats poorly. When ambient temperature and humidity overwhelm those mechanisms, core body temperature rises fast. Above 41°C, organs start failing. Brain damage and death follow within hours.\n\n## The signs\n\nEarly: heavy panting, drooling, glazed eyes, very red gums, increased pulse and respiration.\n\nWorsening: weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, stumbling, collapse.\n\nCritical: loss of consciousness, seizures.\n\n## The first 5 minutes\n\n1. Move to shade or AC immediately.\n2. Cool with room-temperature water — pour over body, especially belly, groin, armpits. Avoid ice cold (causes vasoconstriction, slows cooling).\n3. Wet towels under armpits and groin.\n4. Offer small sips of water if conscious. Don't force.\n5. Drive to the vet now. Even if your pet seems to recover, internal damage may not be visible. Bloodwork at the clinic confirms.\n\n## Who is most at risk\n\n- Brachycephalic breeds (Pug, Bulldog, Persian cat)\n- Older or overweight pets\n- Pets with heart or respiratory disease\n- Anyone left in a parked car (NEVER, even briefly)\n\n## Prevention\n\n- Walk early morning or late evening only\n- Always carry water on walks\n- AC or fans + ventilation indoors\n- No parked cars, no exceptions\n\nIf in doubt, call +91 98711 55162.
Frequently asked
Avoid ice water — it constricts blood vessels and slows cooling. Use room-temperature or cool water poured over the body.
Yes — Kolkata humidity at 35°C+ pushes brachycephalic and senior dogs into heatstroke within minutes. Walk in early morning/late evening only in summer.
Yes. Internal organ damage is invisible at home. Bloodwork at the clinic confirms whether your pet is in the clear.
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