What is feline lower urinary tract disease in cats? 

FLUTD is a complex disease syndrome that encompasses a variety of conditions that can affect a cat’s lower urinary tract which includes the bladder, urethra, and urinary opening. FLUTD previously had several different names including feline urologic syndrome, feline urinary syndrome, feline interstitial cystitis, and Pandora syndrome. Cats of any age can be affected by FLUTD; however, middle-aged, overweight, indoor felines have an increased risk for developing this disease. Other risk factors include:

• Multi-cat households
• Sudden changes in routine
• Environmental stress, such as new people or noises
• Not drinking water regularly 
• Lack of exercise 
• Not enough varied enrichment toys
• Lack of a private area to retreat to

FLUTD may include one or more of the following medical problems:

• Urinary tract infection — Bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites can infect your cat’s urinary tract and cause an increased urgency to urinate.
• Urinary stones (uroliths) — A collection of minerals in the urinary tract may lead to urethral or bladder stones. Calcium oxalate and struvite uroliths are the most common.
• Urethral obstruction — Uroliths can cause a partial or full blockage of the urethra, which is considered a life-threatening emergency. Male cats are most at risk. 
• Feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC) — FIC is the most commonly diagnosed condition in FLUTD cats younger than 10. This disease is not fully understood and may affect other organ systems. 

Feline lower urinary tract disease signs in cats 

FLUTD signs are similar in affected cats, but their severity will vary depending on the underlying cause. Signs may include:

• Difficulty urinating
• Frequent trips to the litter box
• Urinating small amounts
• Vocalizing in pain during urination attempts
• Bloody urine
• Urinating in unusual places
• Excessive licking of the genital area
• Lack of urine production during trips to the litter box which should be treated as a medical emergency

Feline lower urinary tract disease diagnosis and treatment in cats 

Bring your pet in for immediate veterinary care if they have FLUTD signs because cats who have a urinary obstruction are at risk for death. Diagnosing FLUTD can be challenging since multiple underlying conditions may lead to this disease. Ensure you tell your veterinarian about any environmental changes that may be contributing to your cat’s FLUTD. Diagnostic testing may include a complete blood count and serum biochemistry test to check for systemic inflammation, overall organ function, and any underlying medical problems. Your cat’s urine will be evaluated with a urinalysis to check for the presence of blood and urinary crystals, and their overall urine health. A urine culture may be recommended to check for infective organisms. Other diagnostics may include advanced imaging, such as an ultrasound or X-ray to check for the presence of uroliths or other bladder problems. Cats with severe signs including a urinary obstruction or urinary stones will need to be hospitalized for stabilization and treatment which may include:

• Sedation or general anesthesia to remove a urinary blockage and place a urinary catheter
• Surgery to remove bladder stones
• Blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature monitoring 
• Intravenous fluids for dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and flushing out toxins
• Medication for urethral spasms
• Pain medication
• Antibiotics
• Behavioral or calming medications
• Specialized diet

Financial options for your cat’s feline lower urinary tract disease

Pets undergoing FLUTD treatment may require an extended hospital stay, several checkups, and long-term medical management which can be expensive. However, purchasing a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion when your pet is young will ensure funds are available for their emergency care. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly, which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other financial options available to cover treatment costs include: 

• Care Credit 
• Scratch Pay 
• Pet health savings accounts 
• Short-term loans 

Feline lower urinary tract disease prevention in cats

FLUTD is not always preventable because the underlying cause may not be identified in some cases.  Ensure your cat’s environment is low-stress, and provide them with adequate toys and enrichment tools, such as those described here. Other prevention tips include:

• Providing clean, fresh water daily
• Ensuring an adequate number of litter boxes—one box per household cat, plus one additional box 
• Cleaning your cat’s litter box a minimum of twice daily
• Avoiding sudden changes in your cat’s environment and routine
• Decreasing stress with a cat pheromone spray, such as Feliway
• Consulting your family veterinarian about the best nutritional options for your cat

Call your family veterinarian right away if your pet has FLUTD signs. If you need help after hours, contact Animal Emergency Care and bring your pet in for treatment. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/feline-lower-urinary-tract-disease

https://fearfreepets.com/managing-flutd

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951487

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951488

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-lower-urinary-tract-disease

The post A Complex Cat Condition: Understanding Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is nutritionally-mediated dilated cardiomyopathy in pets?

Your pet’s heart functions like a well-oiled machine keeping the blood flowing and carrying oxygen to vital organs. DCM is a heart condition in pets that is caused by a heart muscle disorder, and results in an enlarged heart, weakened contractions, decreased pumping ability, and leaky heart valves. DCM can occur in any dog or cat breed. However large breed dogs—including boxers, Great Danes, Doberman pinschers, and King Charles spaniels—have an increased risk because of a genetic predisposition. Previously, DCM was commonly diagnosed in cats who did not receive a balanced diet because cats lack the ability to produce taurine, an essential amino acid that is important for proper heart function. Now a recent study has shown compelling evidence that limited-ingredient boutique, exotic, and grain-free (BEG) diets,  including grain-free, legume-based, chickpea-based and raw diet pet foods, have led to an increase of DCM in dogs. Pets who develop nutritionally-mediated DCM are at risk for congestive heart failure, which can be fatal.

Nutritionally-mediated dilated cardiomyopathy signs in pets

Signs vary and may not be immediately obvious during the early stages of the disease. Some pets also may succumb to nutritionally-mediated DCM without any signs, so regular examinations by your family veterinarian are key for early diagnosis. Disruptions to your pet’s heart muscle and flow pattern may reveal an audible murmur which can be heard during a veterinary examination. Signs may include: 

• Increased heart rate
• Exercise intolerance 
• Lethargy or weakness
• Coughing or gagging
• Difficulty breathing
• Increased panting
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Fainting or collapsing episodes
• Abdominal distension
• Pale or blue gums

Nutritionally-mediated dilated cardiomyopathy diagnosis and treatment in pets

Bring your pet in for immediate veterinary care if they have DCM signs and tell your veterinarian if your pet has been eating a BEG diet. Your veterinarian will use a stethoscope to evaluate your pet’s heart rhythm and rate as well as listen to their lungs. Pets with nutritionally-mediated DCM have an increased risk for congestive heart failure which can cause muffled lung sounds because fluid is present. Diagnostic tests may include: 

• Blood tests —Various blood tests may be recommended to evaluate your pet’s overall organ function, electrolyte levels, presence of infection, cardiac protein levels, or nutritional deficiencies.
• Blood pressure —Pets with DCM may have elevated blood pressure.
• Electrocardiogram (EKG) — Problems with electrical activity in your pet’s heart can be detected with an EKG. Some pets may require a Holter monitor to review an EKG over a 24 hour-period. 
• X-rays — Pictures of your pet’s heart will provide an overall view of their chest cavity and allow your veterinarian to evaluate the heart and lungs, and detect abnormal fluid accumulation.    
• Echocardiogram —Anultrasound exam provides a real-time visualization of the entire heart to assess overall function and blood flow.  

Pets with nutritionally-mediated DCM have a guarded prognosis and early detection is key to ensure a more positive outcome. DCM has no cure but several treatments are available to slow the disease progression and help your pet remain comfortable. Treatment will depend on the severity of the disease. Pets with congestive heart failure may require hospitalization for stabilization and treatment, which may include: 

• Oxygen therapy 
• Intravenous diuretics to decrease fluid in the chest
• Pimobendan to improve heart strength and lower blood pressure
• Vasodilators to improve circulation
• Beta blockers to decrease blood pressure
• Bronchodilators to increase breathing ability
• Antiarrhythmic medications, to regulate heart rhythm 
• Specialized diet

Financial options for your pet’s nutritionally-mediated dilated cardiomyopathy 

Pets undergoing nutritionally-mediated DCM treatment may require an extended hospital stay, several checkups, and lifelong medical management which can result in a large veterinary bill. However, pet health insurance—like Trupanion—will ensure you can cover the costs for your pet’s veterinary care. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other alternative payment options include:

• Care Credit 
• Scratch Pay 
• Pet health savings accounts 
• Short-term loans 

Nutritionally-mediated dilated cardiomyopathy prevention in pets

Feeding your pet a complete and balanced diet approved by the Association of the American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is the best way to prevent nutritionally-mediated DCM. AAFCO-approved foods contain all of the required nutrients needed to maintain your pet’s heart and overall organ health. Always consult your family veterinarian before changing your pet’s diet to ensure they are receiving required nutrients. 

Call your family veterinarian if your pet has been eating a BEG diet, or, if your pet has DCM signs. If it is after hours, call Animal Emergency Care for emergent help. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://ccah.vetmed.ucdavis.edu/areas-study/genetics/nutritionally-mediated-dcm

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/hospitals/companion-animal-hospital/cardiology/canine-dilated-cardiomyopathy-dcm

https://www.vetmed.wsu.edu/outreach/Pet-Health-Topics/categories/diseases/dilated-cardiomyopathy-in-dogs

The post When Less Is Not More: Understanding Nutritionally-Mediated Dilated Cardiomyopathy In Pets appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

#1: Avoid sharing your plate with your pet 

Many popular Thanksgiving dishes are the cause of holiday pet emergencies because rich fatty foods such as turkey with gravy or other marinated meats are difficult for pets to digest. Pets who indulge in the family meal are at risk for gastrointestinal problems including pancreatitis. This inflammatory condition can be life-threatening and require overnight hospital care. Many Thanksgiving dishes or ingredients may be toxic to pets and lead to kidney problems, heart arrhythmias, or blockages that could require surgery. Never feed your pet the following: 

• Spices and herbs — Stuffing, turkey brine, and other premade holiday foods often contain herbs, essential oils, and resins that can be toxic, especially to cats. Pets who eat these ingredients have an increased risk of gastrointestinal upset or central nervous system depression. 
• Onions, garlic, and chives — Small amounts can cause life-threatening anemia.  Signs that your pet has ingested these foods include panting, high heart rate, and blood in the urine.
• Raisins and grapes — Just one raisin or grape can cause kidney failure in dogs. Signs can occur up to two hours after ingestion and include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, and excess urination.
• Yeast rolls — Eating unbaked yeast rolls or any raw dough can result in painful gas and intestinal bloating.
• Casseroles —Pets do not have enough of the enzyme lactase which is needed to properly digest the dairy products commonly used in most casserole dishes. Eating any milk-based product can cause gastrointestinal problems.
• Chocolate — All chocolate, but especially dark and baker’s chocolate, contain methylxanthine stimulants, specifically caffeine and theobromine, which can be deadly to dogs. Clinical signs include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, elevated heart rate, and possible death.
• Sugar-free treats — Many sugar-free foods and peanut butters contain the sweetener xylitol. Small amounts can be toxic to dogs and result in liver failure, seizures, and death in some cases.
• Alcohol — Desserts or beverages containing alcohol can cause a variety of problems including vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, or death. 

#2: Pet-proof your decor 

Pumpkin spice-flavored candles, decorative cornucopias, and festive flowers set the perfect Thanksgiving mood but can spell disaster for your pet. Always check the ASPCA toxic plant list before adorning your table or home with floral or plant centerpieces. Place lit candles out of paws’ reach to prevent singed whiskers and burned paws. Many scented candles, potpourri, and votives contain essential oils, which are toxic to pets, especially cats, puppies, or dogs with liver disease. Essential oils can be absorbed by inhalation or through the skin. The toxic effects vary and may include coughing, difficulty breathing, panting, seizures, and in some cases death. Ensure your Thanksgiving decor does not include any of these essential oils:

• Clove oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Tea tree oil
• Wintergreen oil
• Oil of sweet birch
• Citrus oil
• Pine oil
• Ylang-ylang oil
• Peppermint oil
• Cinnamon oil
• Pennyroyal oil

#3: Prevent your pet from counter-surfing and dumpster diving 

Many curious noses will take advantage of the kitchen chaos during Thanksgiving meal preparations and post-meal cleanups. The tempting smells of sizzling meats and discarded food scraps are difficult for pets to resist, and nosy snouts may want to sample wrappers, leftovers, and discarded bones. Eating turkey bones or corn cobs can lead to intestinal obstructions or tears which may require emergency care and surgery. Wrappers with raw meat remnants can cause salmonella poisoning, leading to gastrointestinal distress, infection, or pancreatitis. Ensure that a pet-proof lid is placed on all garbage cans and frequently remove all garbage and food scraps from your home to prevent a Thanksgiving pet emergency. 

#4: Provide your pet a safe space during celebrations 

Loud noises, unfamiliar people, and strange smells can be stressful to pets so set up a safe space such as a crate or comfortable room where they can retreat during festivities. Play soft music, provide a special toy or treat, and consider using a pheromone spray such as Adaptil or Feliway to promote a calming environment. Pets with severe anxiety may benefit from a short-term prescription sedative or serotonin-increasing medication. It is easy to become distracted during the Thanksgiving chaos and some pets may go on an unplanned adventure to join the neighbors’ celebrations. Ensure your pet is wearing an identifiable collar and bring them to your family veterinarian to check that their microchip is functioning properly and your contact information is current. 

#5: Be prepared for pet emergencies 

Pet accidents can happen at any time despite your best efforts to prevent them. Common holiday emergencies including gastrointestinal inflammation or toxic food ingestion may require an extended hospital stay which can result in a larger veterinary bill. Fortunately several payment options are available to cover treatment costs including pet health insurance like Trupanion. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly, which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for your reimbursement. Other payment options include pet health savings accounts, Care Credit, Scratch Pay, and short-term loans.

Call your family veterinarian right away if your pet gets into any Thanksgiving trouble. If you need help after hours, contact Animal Emergency Care and bring your pet in for emergency treatment. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/thanksgiving-pet-safety

https://www.aspca.org/news/how-have-happy-healthy-and-humane-thanksgiving-your-pets

https://www.petmd.com/dog/seasonal/evr_multi_dangerous_winter_holiday_plants

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/blog/essential-oils-cats/

The post No Bones About It: 5 Tips For A Safe Pets-Giving  appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is pancreatitis in pets? 

The pancreas is a small glandular organ located below the stomach that produces the hormones insulin and glucagon. The pancreas also secretes digestive enzymes that are essential to break down nutrients in the small intestine. 

A disruption in normal pancreatic function can result in pancreatitis, a painful and potentially life-threatening inflammatory condition that is common in dogs and cats. Abnormal release and activation of digestive enzymes like lipase can lead to pancreatic inflammation, tissue damage, toxin release, and damage to other organs such as the liver. Additionally, pets with pancreatitis have an increased risk for developing diabetes, abnormal bleeding or clotting problems, and brain damage. 

In some cases, there is no definitive cause for pancreatitis in pets. Breeds such as miniature schnauzers, cocker spaniels, dachshunds, and Yorkshire terriers also have an increased risk of developing pancreatitis. However, feeding your dog a rich, fatty meal or treat is the most common culprit. It is unknown if ingesting a fatty meal can cause pancreatitis in cats because more than 95 percent of cat pancreatitis cases have no identifiable underlying cause. Numerous pancreatitis risk factors exist for cats and dogs, including:

• Trauma to the pancreas 
• Pancreatic tumors
• Hormonal imbalances (i.e., hypothyroidism, diabetes)
• Insecticide exposure (i.e., organophosphate)
• Certain medications (i.e., chemotherapy agents, sulfa drugs)
• Irritable bowel disease in cats
• Toxoplasmosis in cats
• Feline distemper infection

Pancreatitis signs in pets

Signs of pancreatitis vary in pets and depend on the underlying cause and duration. Many affected cats will not show any obvious disease signs, and some cats may develop a concurrent fatty liver. Common signs may include: 

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Dehydration
• Fever
• Irregular heartbeat
• Low temperature in cats
• Yellow skin in cats 

Pancreatitis diagnosis and treatment in pets

Bring your pet in for immediate veterinary care if they have pancreatitis signs. Pancreatitis is painful to pets and can be deadly without treatment. Diagnosing pancreatitis can be challenging because it is not uncommon for multiple organ systems to be affected, and signs often mimic other diseases. Tell your veterinarian if your pet has had access to the garbage, a new treat, or any human food. Diagnostic testing may include a complete blood count and serum biochemistry test to check for systemic inflammation and overall organ function and to rule out underlying medical problems. Specialized blood tests to measure pancreatic enzyme levels also may be recommended. Other diagnostics may include advanced imaging such as an ultrasound or X-ray to examine the size, shape, and function of the pancreas.

In most cases, pets with pancreatitis will require a long-term hospitalization for stabilization and treatment. Fortunately, most pets who receive aggressive care and who do not have underlying medical conditions will recover. Treatments may include:

• Blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature monitoring 
• Intravenous fluids for dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and pancreatic support
• Pain medication
• Anti-nausea medication
• Gastroprotectant medications
• Antibiotics
• B12 vitamin injections
• Specialized diet

Financial options for your pet’s pancreatitis treatment

Pets undergoing pancreatitis treatment may require an extended hospital stay and several checkups, which can be expensive. Purchasing a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion when your pet is young will ensure funds are available for their emergency care. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly, which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other financial options available to cover treatment costs include: 

• Care Credit 
• Scratch Pay 
• Pet health savings account 
• Short-term loans 

Pancreatitis prevention in pets

Pancreatitis is not always preventable because the underlying cause cannot always be determined. However, you can decrease your pet’s risk by: 

• Not feeding them any people food, especially rich, fatty food
• Providing them with a complete and balanced diet, including pet-safe treats
• Bringing them in for yearly or more frequent veterinary visits to identify any underlying diseases and pancreatitis risks
• Not changing their diet without consulting your family veterinarian
• Helping them maintain a healthy weight 

Call your family veterinarian right away if your pet has pancreatitis signs. If you need help after hours, contact Animal Emergency Care and bring your pet in for immediate treatment. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952412

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951457

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/digestive-system/the-exocrine-pancreas/pancreatitis-in-dogs-and-cats

https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-education/ask-aaha/Pancreatitis-in-Pets

https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/cornell-feline-health-center/health-information/feline-health-topics/feline-pancreatitis

The post The Trickiness of Treats: Understanding Pet Pancreatitis appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is diabetes in pets?

Diabetes mellitus (i.e., sugar diabetes) affects one in nearly 300 cats and dogs. In rare cases, pets also may develop diabetes insipidus (i.e., water diabetes), a condition caused by an abnormally functioning pituitary gland. Diabetes mellitus is the most commonly diagnosed diabetes type in pets, and occurs when the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas do not function properly. Insulin is required for sugar (i.e., glucose) absorption in the body, which is vital for energy and overall organ function. Pets who do not produce adequate insulin become hyperglycemic because the sugar is not able to reach their cells and accumulates in their bloodstream and in their urine in some cases. Pets who are diagnosed have an increased risk for secondary bacterial and fungal infections, which can lead to long-term skin infections, bladder inflammation, lung problems, or an inflamed prostate in male pets. Pets who have uncontrolled or undiagnosed diabetes also are at risk for collapse and possible death. Such breeds as Australian terriers, beagles, and Samoyeds have an increased risk for developing diabetes because of a genetic predisposition. Other diabetes mellitus risk factors may include:

• Obesity
• Long-term use of steroid medications
• Adrenal disease, such as Cushing’s disease 
• Pituitary disease

Diabetes signs in pets

Disease signs are variable, and pets with advanced forms of diabetes are at risk for life-threatening ketoacidosis (DKA). Diabetes mellitus signs may include:

• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Increased or decreased appetite
• Weight loss
• Dull fur coat
• Cataracts in dogs
• Abnormal gait in cats

DKA signs may include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Disorientation
• Depression 
• Lethargy 
• Coma 

Diabetes diagnosis and treatment in pets

Bring your pet in for emergency veterinary care if you suspect they have DKA, or bring your pet to your family veterinarian if they are showing signs of diabetes. Diagnosis is based on consistently high blood glucose and glucosuria, or sugar in the urine. Other diagnostic work may include a complete blood count and serum biochemistry test to check for an underlying infection and overall organ function. A urinalysis and urine culture test may be recommended to check for infection. Other diagnostic tests may include hormone level testing and advanced imaging such as an X-ray or ultrasound to check organ structure and function, and for any underlying disease. Your pet’s diabetic treatment may include:

• Insulin injections
• Specialized diet
• Antibiotics for secondary infections
• Regular blood glucose monitoring 
• Blood pressure monitoring

Diabetic dogs will require lifelong insulin treatments in most cases. Some cats may achieve remission. Pets who are diagnosed with DKA will require hospitalization for stabilization and treatment which may include:

• Electrolyte monitoring 
• Blood and urine glucose monitoring 
• Intravenous fluids for dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• Short-acting insulin injections
• Anti-nausea medications
• Gastroprotectant medications

Financial options for your pet’s diabetes treatment

Diabetes treatment may require your pet to be hospitalized. In addition, your diabetic pet likely will require lifelong insulin injections, monitoring of their blood glucose, and regular veterinary checkups. Such long-term care can result in a larger veterinary bill. Fortunately multiple payment options are available to help you pay for your pet’s diabetic treatment. Pet health insurance providers like Trupanion offer policies that can pay your veterinary clinic directly, which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Care Credit and Scratch Pay allow you to spread payments over longer periods with delayed interest rates in some cases. Pet health savings accounts and short-term loans are also available to help. 

Diabetes prevention in pets 

Diabetes cannot always be prevented in pets. However, feeding your pet a well-balanced diet, ensuring they receive regular exercise, and helping them maintain a healthy weight will decrease their chances of becoming sick. Yearly or more frequent veterinary visits will ensure an early diabetes diagnosis and aid in the identification of underlying medical problems or diabetic risk factors.

Call your family veterinarian if you suspect your pet has diabetes. However, call Animal Emergency Care if your pet has any diabetes or DKA signs after hours, and bring them in for immediate care. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951506

https://www.petmd.com/cat/conditions/diabetes-dogs-and-cats-everything-you-need-know

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952917

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/endocrine-system/the-pancreas/diabetes-mellitus-in-dogs-and-cats?query=diabetes

https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/diabetes-pets

The post The Sugar Crash: Understanding Pet Diabetes appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is heat stroke in pets? 

Heatstroke or heat exhaustion develops when your pet’s body temperature rises above the normal range of 100 to 102.5 degrees as a result of exposure to a hot environment or high humidity at lower temperatures. Pets have few sweat glands compared with humans, and primarily cool themselves by panting. Dogs are generally more affected by heat stroke than cats. Brachycephalic dog breeds such as bulldogs and pugs have an increased risk for heat stroke because their shorter oral and nasal cavities are less efficient at cooling. Overweight pets, senior pets, and pets who have underlying heart and lung problems also have an increased risk. However any species, breed, or age can be affected when they are exposed to warmer temperatures. Common culprits for heat stroke include:

• Leaving a pet inside a car, including when it does not feel hot outside
• Leaving a pet indoors during warm weather without proper ventilation or air conditioning
• Playing or exercising a pet in warm weather with no breaks for cooling or hydration
• Neglecting to provide a pet with adequate access to water during warm weather
• Leaving a pet outside during warm weather with no access to shade, water, or a cool location

Heat stroke signs in pets

Pets who have heat stroke are at risk for brain swelling, organ failure, and bleeding problems because extreme temperatures can impair their coagulation system. Heat stroke signs may include:

• Excessive panting
• Excessive drooling
• Difficulty breathing
• Incoordination
• Bright red gums
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea, which may contain blood
• Bruising without apparent trauma 
• Collapse
• Muscle tremors 
• Unconsciousness 
• Seizures
• Death 

Diagnosis and treatment of heat stroke in pets

Immediately move your pet to a cool environment such as your air conditioned home, and offer them water if they are showing heat stroke signs such as excessive panting. Place your pet in a bathtub of cool water. Never put them in an ice bath or cold water. Remove your pet from the cool bath once their temperature reaches 103 degrees, and dry them off.

Bring your pet to your family veterinarian for immediate care if their heat stroke signs have not improved in 10 minutes or if they collapse, have seizures, or become unconscious. Ensure you inform your veterinarian that your pet has suffered extreme heat exposure or had been excessively exercising. Your pet’s history, signs, and rectal temperature higher than 102.5 degrees will confirm a heat stroke diagnosis. Your veterinarian may recommend blood tests to check your pet’s electrolytes, overall organ function, and blood clotting functions. Treatments may include:

• Cool water baths
• Intravenous (IV) fluids 
• Oxygen therapy
• Anti-nausea medication
• Gastroprotectant medications
• Blood or plasma transfusions
• Specialized cooling pads
• Heart rate and blood pressure monitoring
• Regular body temperature monitoring

Payment options for a pet’s heat stroke treatment

Heat stroke treatment often requires an extended hospital stay in addition to several follow up appointments, and such care can result in a large veterinary bill. However, several payment options are available to cover treatment costs including:

• Care Credit and Scratch Pay which allow payments to be spread out over longer periods
• Pet health savings accounts or short-term loans
• Pet health insurance like Trupanion which will ensure you can cover the costs for your pet’s emergency heat stroke treatment—Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly and eliminate the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements 

Heat stroke prevention in pets

Heat stroke can be deadly, and close supervision of your pet when they are exposed to warmer temperatures is vital. Heat stroke can occur when temperatures are 80 degrees or higher or when humidity levels are high. Prevention measures include:

• Avoiding exercising your pet during hot weather days
• Never leaving your pet outside or unsupervised during hot weather
• Never leaving your pet alone for any period of time even in a parked car with the windows down, and even if it may not seem hot outside because heat can still build up quickly inside the car
• Keeping higher risk pets in air conditioned environments during hot weather days except for short outdoor bathroom breaks

Immediately contact your family veterinarian if your pet is experiencing heat stroke or bring them to Animal Emergency Care if they need help after hours. #AECprevents

Sources: https://www.aaha.org/your-pet/pet-owner-education/ask-aaha/how-can-i-prevent-heatstroke-in-my-pet/

https://todaysveterinarynurse.com/articles/providing-care-to-dogs-with-heatstroke

https://vetmed.illinois.edu/pet_column/warm-weather-heat-stroke

The post The Heat is On: Protecting Your Pet from Heat Stroke  appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.