As the UK is braced for record-breaking temperatures this week, it’s not only people who will be feeling the heat.
Pets can also experience sunburn and heatstroke, so it’s important to take the right measures to keep them cool.
Here, ITV News explains how to protect your pets during the heatwave.
Shade and water
Pets should have constant access to shaded areas, inside and outside.
Place fans around the house to keep the air circulating, remembering not to point the fan directly at your pet.
Cats Protection recommends that during the warmest parts of the day, try to keep your cat inside between 10am and 3pm.
You should also make sure clean and cold water is available. Ice cubes can be put into the water bowl.
For cats, you can spread water bowls around the house so they have easy access.
Walking during cooler times of the day
Take your dog out for a walk earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler.
Don’t run or cycle with your dog in the heat.
The RSCPA also recommends checking how hot the pavement is before walking. If it’s too hot to touch with your hand for five seconds, then it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Use pet-safe suncream
Pet-safe suncream can help prevent sunburn on your pet’s skin, like their ears and nose.
This is particularly important for pets with white or light-coloured fur, as they “can be very vulnerable to getting burned”, according to the RSCPA.
Frozen toys and paddling pools
For dogs, frozen toys and paddling pools can help keep them entertained and cool them down.
You can also give them a damp towel to lie on or an ice pack wrapped in a towel.
However, the RSPCA warns against putting a damp towel over them, as it can trap in the heat.
For cats, you can freeze a bottle of water, wrap it in a towel or pillowcase and place it somewhere your cat goes regularly.
This can stop them from feeling overheated during hotter spells. Make sure that your cat can get away from the bottle if they choose.
Regular grooming to reduce the density of their coat
Regularly brushing your dog can help remove excess hair and knots, so they have a “less dense coat”.
How to spot sunburn in your pet
There are symptoms to look out for in case your pet gets sunburnt:
- Red, sore skin
- Blistering and peeling
If you think your pet has sunburn, you should bring them indoors immediately and contact your vet for advice.
Signs of heatstroke
You should contact your vet immediately if you think your pet might have heatstroke, the RSPCA says.
The symptoms to look out for include:
- Heavy panting
- Excessive drooling
- Lethargy
- Drowsiness
- Uncoordinated movements
- Collapsing
- Vomiting
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