Pets: Don't let them feel the heat

HEATSTROKE is a real possibility for caged animals during the summer months – and one which could have potentially fatal consequences for our small furry friends.

But despite this, it is a condition that can easily be overlooked as hamsters, rabbits, rats or mice swelter in direct sunlight, their owners unaware of their misery.

"When thinking about summer safety for pets, most people focus on dogs and cats," explains PDSA senior veterinary surgeon Sean Wensley.

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"But we shouldn't forget that the hot weather also affects smaller pets as well.

"Animals living in cages and hutches such as hamsters and rabbits are vulnerable and need extra help from owners to stay safe in the summer months."

When it comes to hamsters, the PDSA recommends moving cages out of direct sunlights, while keeping a water bottle full and fresh at all times.

Heatstroke in hamsters is sometimes called sleeper disease, to which dwarf hamsters are particularly sensitive. It occurs when temperatures start to rise above 25C and an affected hamster will lie flat on the cage floor, limp, and may tremble when touched.

"If you suspect your hamster is suffering from heatstroke you should contact your vet immediately for advice," says Sean. "Wrap them in a light cloth soaked in cool water to slowly reduce their body temperature. Their cage should be moved into a cool, well-ventilated room and give them water to help rehydrate their body."

Rabbits are also vulnerable to heatstroke, particularly if they live in poorly ventilated hutches or in direct sunlight.

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Indoor rabbits should always be kept away from windows to avoid them becoming too hot.

Heatstroke in rabbits develops fast, with animals showing shallow breathing, becoming weak and uncoordinated. As the condition worsens, they may fit, which increases their body temperature further.

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To decrease their temperature, wrap them in cool, wet towels and take them to a vet as soon as possible for treatment to avoid kidney damage and shock.

If their body temperature rises above 30C, rats and mice can also develop heatstroke, so as with hamsters, their cages should be positioned out of direct sunlight and moved away from places that are likely to become hot.

Although gerbils originate from the desert, to survive intense heat there, they burrow deep into the sand. They will become uncomfortable in temperatures above 35C, so should not be kept in direct sunlight, rather a cool, well ventilated room. As with other small rodents, if you suspect your rats or mice might be suffering from heatstroke, wrap your pet in a light cloth soaked in cool water to gradually reduce their temperature.

Sean says: "Whatever kind of pet you keep, in warm weather you should take extra care and precautions to protect them from the heat. If you are concerned that your pet may be suffering from heatstroke you should contact your vet immediately for advice."

visit www.pdsa.org.uk/pethealth

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