Care & how-to
Heat Exhaustion and Heatstroke in Dogs and Cats
Call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinarian immediately if you suspect heatstroke in your dog or cat, and begin cooling while help and transport are arranged. Move the animal out of the heat and, if safe, apply cool water to the body while keeping water away from the face. Heavy panting, weakness, confusion, vomiting, or collapse after heat exposure can signal an emergency; do not wait for a temperature reading.
By Matt GarnettUpdated November 11, 20262 min read4 sources
Stop heat exposure and act on the signs
Cornell describes heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, weakness, confusion, seizures, and collapse among canine heatstroke signs. PDSA describes similar warning signs in cats, including panting or fast breathing after heat exposure. These changes call for immediate help rather than a home attempt to determine whether the stage is “only” heat exhaustion.
Move the pet into shade or a cooler indoor environment and contact the emergency clinic. Explain the heat exposure, what signs are present, and whether the animal is responsive and breathing comfortably. If possible, another person can make the call while cooling begins. Keep the response calm and prioritize safe handling; a distressed animal may be difficult to move or touch.
Begin active cooling safely, then transport promptly
The 2026 RECOVER veterinary first-aid guidelines recommend moving dogs and cats to a cool environment and suggest applying cool running water to the trunk, below the neck, soaking through the coat to the skin. Keep water away from the face to avoid inhalation. The guidelines advise against attempts that put the caregiver at high risk.
Cornell also recommends wetting an overheated dog with cool water and using vehicle air conditioning during the trip to the hospital. PDSA advises offering a cat water without forcing it to drink and avoiding covering it with a wet towel. Start cooling promptly, obtain live veterinary instructions, and transport for care rather than staying home to see whether cooling alone has solved the problem.
Veterinary assessment matters even after improvement
Cornell explains that heatstroke can damage organs and affect blood clotting. The clinic may need an examination, bloodwork, and further monitoring rather than relying only on how the pet looks after cooling. PDSA likewise describes organ checks and follow-up for cats recovering from heatstroke.
Tell the team when exposure began, when you first noticed signs, and what cooling has been done. Do not cancel assessment because panting decreases or the animal seems brighter. Ask about the monitoring plan, what to watch for after discharge, and when rechecks are needed. Report a new decline promptly, and follow the individual instructions about activity and recovery.
This page is general information, not veterinary advice, and it cannot replace an examination by the vet who knows your pet.
Common questions
Can I wait for a temperature reading before getting help?
No. Contact an emergency veterinarian when heatstroke is suspected and begin safe cooling. Heat exposure plus concerning signs is enough to act; obtaining a reading should not delay first aid or care.
Can cats get heatstroke too?
Yes. PDSA highlights accidental confinement in hot, poorly ventilated spaces as a common risk for cats. Panting, weakness, confusion, vomiting, or collapse after heat exposure needs immediate cooling and veterinary attention.
How can I reduce the risk of another episode?
Cornell recommends avoiding strenuous activity in heat, providing shade and water, and never leaving a dog unattended in a car. For cats, PDSA recommends checking enclosed spaces before shutting them and ensuring cool, ventilated resting options.
Sources we checked
This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your pet is unwell or injured, contact your veterinarian.