How Adelaide Heatwaves Affect Elderly and Vulnerable Pets
Adelaide’s summer heatwaves can be tough for everyone – including our furry family members. While all pets are affected by extreme heat, elderly pets and pets with respiratory or cardiac conditions are especially at risk. At Horizon Palliative Vets, we provide at-home palliative care and guidance to help your pets stay comfortable and safe during hot weather.
How Heat Impacts Elderly and Frail Pets
Pets regulate body temperature differently from humans. Dogs pant, cats sweat through their paws, and both can struggle to stay cool during high temperatures. Elderly or frail pets, or pets with heart, lung, or mobility issues, may become stressed more quickly in the heat.
Heat can worsen existing conditions, leading to:
Increased breathing effort or shortness of breath
Fatigue or weakness
Reduced appetite or water intake
General discomfort or restlessness
Signs of Heat Stress in Dogs vs. Cats
Recognising early warning signs helps you support your pet’s comfort and know when veterinary attention is needed.
Dogs
Heavy or persistent panting (beyond normal)
Lethargy, unsteady walking, or weakness
Drooling or mild distress
Red or pale gums
Restlessness or seeking cooler areas
Cats
Panting or open-mouth breathing (not normal in cats)
Lethargy or unusual hiding
Rapid breathing or mild distress
Weakness or reluctance to move
Seeking cool surfaces or shaded areas
Important: Signs such as collapse, severe panting, difficulty breathing, or seizures can indicate a veterinary emergency. If your pet shows these, contact your regular veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately.
Tips to Keep Vulnerable Pets Comfortable During Heatwaves
Keep pets indoors in cool, shaded areas during peak heat
Offer fresh, cool water frequently
Offer wet food to increase hydration and maintain nutrition
Avoid exercise or exertion during hot parts of the day
Use cooling aids like damp towels or pet-safe mats
Ensure pets can move freely to cooler areas
How Horizon Palliative Vets Can Help
At Horizon Palliative Vets, we support frail, elderly, or chronically ill pets by:
Providing at-home visits to reduce stress from travelling to a clinic, which can be particularly important during hot weather
Advising on keeping your pet comfortable, hydrated, and cool at home
Suggesting home modifications to improve comfort during heat
Providing ongoing palliative and end-of-life support
Working closely with your regular veterinarian to maintain continuity of care
Our goal is to help your pet stay safe, calm, and comfortable in their own home while giving you peace of mind.
Keeping Your Pet Safe This Summer
Heat can be stressful for elderly or vulnerable pets. By monitoring for early signs, providing supportive care at home, and contacting your regular veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately when emergencies arise, you can help your pet stay safe and comfortable.
For at-home palliative care and guidance for your elderly or unwell pet during Adelaide’s heatwaves, contact Horizon Palliative Vets today.