Some Pets Just Can't Take the Heat

Why Flat-Faced Dogs and Cats Face Greater Risks During Hot Weather

Summer brings vacations, backyard barbecues, camping trips, and more time outdoors with our pets. But while many of us enjoy the warmer weather, high temperatures can quickly become dangerous for our four-legged family members—especially those with flat faces.

Most pet owners know that Pugs, Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs don't tolerate heat well. What surprises many people is that several popular cat breeds, including Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs, face many of the same challenges.

Understanding why these breeds are at greater risk can help prevent a life-threatening emergency.

What Does "Brachycephalic" Mean?

Veterinarians use the word brachycephalic to describe animals with shortened skulls and flattened faces.

While these breeds are known for their expressive eyes, adorable "smushed" noses, and charming personalities, those same physical characteristics can also create breathing challenges.

Because their nasal passages are shorter and their upper airways are often narrower, moving air in and out of the lungs requires more effort than it does for pets with longer noses.

Now add extreme heat and humidity to the equation.

The result is a pet that may struggle to cool itself long before other breeds begin showing signs of distress.

Common Flat-Faced Dog Breeds

Some of the more common brachycephalic dog breeds include:

• Pug

• French Bulldog

• English Bulldog

• Boston Terrier

• Shih Tzu

• Pekingese

• Boxer

• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (some individuals)

These breeds often require extra care during periods of hot weather.

Flat-Faced Cats Need Extra Care Too

Many cat owners are surprised to learn that brachycephalic cats exist as well.

These include:

• Persian

• Himalayan

• Exotic Shorthair

Because these breeds share the same shortened facial structure, they can also have more difficulty moving air efficiently.

Unlike dogs, however, cats rarely pant.

In fact, panting in a cat should never be dismissed as "normal."

Cats primarily regulate body temperature by seeking cool areas, reducing activity, and grooming themselves. As saliva evaporates from their coat, it provides a small cooling effect.

If a cat begins open-mouth breathing or panting, it may already be dangerously overheated and should receive immediate veterinary attention.

Heat and Humidity: A Dangerous Combination

Many people pay attention to the air temperature but overlook humidity.

Humidity makes cooling much more difficult because moisture doesn't evaporate as efficiently.

For dogs that rely on panting—and cats that are already struggling to regulate body temperature—high humidity significantly reduces their ability to cool themselves.

A cloudy 88-degree day with high humidity may actually be more dangerous than a dry 95-degree afternoon.

Which Pets Are at the Greatest Risk?

Although flat-faced breeds deserve special attention, other pets can also struggle in extreme heat.

Risk increases for:

• Senior pets

• Puppies and kittens

• Overweight pets

• Pets with heart disease

• Pets with respiratory disease

• Pets recovering from illness or surgery

Even excitement, anxiety, or vigorous play can increase body temperature surprisingly quickly.

Recognizing the Early Warning Signs

Heat-related illness often develops gradually.

Watch for:

• Excessive panting (dogs)

• Open-mouth breathing or panting (cats)

• Heavy drooling

• Bright red gums

• Weakness

• Slowing down during walks

• Seeking shade

• Reluctance to continue exercising

As body temperature continues to rise, more serious signs may develop:

• Vomiting

• Staggering

• Collapse

• Confusion

• Seizures

• Loss of consciousness

Heatstroke is a true medical emergency.

Prevention Is Your Best Protection

Fortunately, most heat-related emergencies can be prevented.

During hot weather:

• Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening.

• Avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.

• Provide fresh water at all times.

• Make shade readily available outdoors.

• Use air conditioning whenever possible.

• Consider cooling mats or elevated pet beds to improve airflow.

• Never leave pets unattended in parked vehicles.

Also remember your pet's paws.

If the pavement is too hot for the back of your hand, it is too hot for your pet's paw pads.

Hot asphalt and concrete can cause painful burns in just a matter of seconds.

If Your Pet Shows Signs of Heatstroke

Don't wait to see if your pet improves.

Move your pet into a cool, shaded or air-conditioned area immediately.

Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water if your pet is alert and able to drink.

Begin cooling with cool, wet towels placed around the neck, chest, and paws, avoiding ice water, which may actually slow heat loss by causing blood vessels to constrict.

Most importantly, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Calling ahead while you are safely on your way can save valuable time. Your veterinarian may provide instructions to begin before arrival, and your phone call allows the veterinary team to prepare for your pet's emergency before you walk through the door.

Every Summer Is Different

Some summers bring only a few hot days.

Others seem relentless.

Regardless of the forecast, remember that not every pet handles heat the same way.

Understanding your own pet's unique needs—especially if they have a flat face, are overweight, or are entering their senior years—can make all the difference.

A little extra planning today may prevent a heartbreaking emergency tomorrow.

🐾 Paws 4 Safety Quick Facts

🐾 Flat-faced dogs aren't the only brachycephalic pets. Persians, Himalayans, and Exotic Shorthairs are also considered brachycephalic cats.

🐱 Cats usually cool themselves by grooming. As saliva evaporates from their coat, it helps remove body heat. A cat that begins panting should be evaluated immediately.

🐶 Dogs have very few sweat glands. Most are located in their paw pads, which is why panting is their primary method of cooling.

🐾 Hot pavement can burn paws quickly. If it's too hot for the back of your hand, it's too hot for your pet's feet.