Australian summers do not muck around, and neither does heat stress. Dogs and cats do not cool down the way humans do. Dogs mainly rely on panting, and cats are experts at hiding discomfort until they’re really struggling.
Why heat stress happens so quickly
On warm days, a pet can overheat faster than you might expect, especially if they’re:
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Brachycephalic (flat faced breeds like Pugs and Bulldogs)
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Overweight
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Very young or older
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Wearing a thick coat
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Exercising hard, even briefly
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Stressed or anxious
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Left in a car or enclosed space
Even a short walk at the wrong time of day can be enough to tip them over.
Early warning signs
Heat stress can start subtly, then escalate. Watch for:
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Heavy panting, noisy breathing
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Drooling or thick saliva
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Bright red or very pale gums
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Lethargy, wobbliness, reluctance to move
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Vomiting or diarrhoea
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Collapse or seizures in severe cases
If you see these, treat it as urgent.
What to do if you suspect overheating
Move your pet into shade or an air conditioned space immediately. Offer small amounts of water. Use cool water on the body, especially the belly, armpits, and paws. Avoid icy water or fully submerging them, as rapid temperature changes can cause other problems. A fan can help cooling too.
Then call your vet for advice, even if your pet seems to improve. Heat injury can continue internally after they look better on the outside.
Prevention that actually works
The simplest prevention plan is also the best:
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Walk early morning or later evening
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Keep exercise short on hot days
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Provide shade and ventilation outdoors
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Always have fresh water available
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Use cooling mats or damp towels indoors
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Never leave pets in cars, even “just for a minute”
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For outdoor cats, ensure sheltered cool spots
A practical test for dog walks: place your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for paws.
The takeaway
Heat stress is preventable, but it can turn dangerous quickly. If you’re unsure, play it safe. Your pet will not judge you for cancelling a walk. They’ll probably nap through it anyway.
