Heat Safety for Dogs and Cats

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Details: 22 June 2026

How to keep pets cool and avoid heat related illness in Glasgow.

As summer begins, warmer weather can quickly become uncomfortable and even dangerous for pets. Dogs and cats do not cope with heat in the same way humans do, and heatstroke in dogs and cats can happen faster than many owners realise.

At Pets'N'Vets in Glasgow we see a noticeable spike in heat-related calls every summer, particularly from owners walking their dogs at Kelvingrove Park during the hottest part of the day. Dogs cool themselves mainly by panting, while cats rely on finding cool, quiet places to rest. Both methods have limits, especially during heatwaves or high humidity.

Simple ways to keep pets cool

Small changes can make a big difference.

Always provide fresh, cool water and refresh it often
Keep pets indoors during the hottest part of the day
Close curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight
Use fans to improve airflow, but make sure pets can move away if they choose
Provide cooling mats or damp towels for resting

For dogs, walks should be limited to early mornings or late evenings. Pavements can become dangerously hot, so always check the ground with your hand before heading out.

Cats often manage heat quietly, so make sure they have access to shaded areas, cool floors, and undisturbed resting spots.

Pets most at risk in hot weather

Some pets need extra care in summer.

Flat faced breeds such as Bulldogs and Persians
Overweight pets
Senior pets
Animals with heart or breathing problems

If your pet falls into one of these groups, the team at Pets'N'Vets can offer tailored advice to help reduce risk. We see a lot of French Bulldogs in Glasgow, and we'll happily plan a summer check-up around your pet's needs.

Signs of heatstroke to watch for

Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Knowing the signs of heatstroke in dogs and cats can buy your pet vital minutes.

Look out for

Heavy panting or rapid breathing
Drooling or thick saliva
Lethargy or weakness
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Collapse or seizures

If you are concerned, contact Pets'N'Vets on 0141 649 4949 immediately. Early treatment can be lifesaving.

What to do if you suspect heatstroke

Heatstroke is a true emergency. The first few minutes really matter, and what you do at home before you get to the vet can make a real difference.

Move your pet to a cool, shaded place straight away.
Wet their coat with cool, not ice cold, water. Pay particular attention to the belly, groin and paw pads.
Use a fan or open window to keep air moving over the wet fur.
Offer small sips of cool water if they want it, but never force them to drink.
Get to the vet as quickly as you safely can, even if your pet seems to be picking up. Internal damage can show itself several hours later.

A note on what to avoid. Do not use very cold water, ice packs directly against the skin, or full ice baths. It sounds counterintuitive, but extreme cold can make blood vessels at the surface clamp down, which actually traps heat inside the body and can tip pets into shock. Cool, gentle and quick is the rule.

How your vet can help

The team at Pets'N'Vets in Glasgow can:

Assess your pet's heat risk before summer hits
Offer advice on safe exercise routines
Support weight management
Help manage ongoing health conditions during summer

If you'd like a summer check-up before the next heatwave, you can book online at here or call us on 0141 649 4949.

Quick answers

What temperature is too hot for a dog?

As a rule of thumb, walks become risky once the air temperature is above 20°C, and high-risk above 24°C. Pavement temperature also matters — if you can't comfortably hold the back of your hand on the ground for seven seconds, it's too hot for paws. Vet advice in Glasgow: shift walks to early morning or late evening through July and August.

What are the first signs of heatstroke in a dog?

Heavy panting, very thick or stringy saliva, bright red gums, lethargy, and an unwillingness to keep moving are usually the earliest signs. Vomiting, collapse and seizures come later and indicate a true emergency.

Should I put my dog in cold water if I think they have heatstroke?

No. Use cool tap water, not ice cold water or an ice bath. Extreme cold causes blood vessels at the surface to constrict, which traps heat in the body. Wet the coat, particularly belly, groin and paw pads, keep air moving, and get to the vet straight away.

Can cats get heatstroke too?

Yes, especially older cats, overweight cats, and flat-faced breeds like Persians. Cats tend to hide discomfort, so look for unusually quiet behaviour, panting (very unusual in cats), drooling, or seeking out cold floors and tiled areas.