Heatstroke And Frostbite

Heat Stroke: Heat stroke most commonly occurs in cats left in poorly ventilated or closed cars exposed to the sun. Unavailability of drinking water, excessive exercise or excitement may also be a cause. Symptoms include open-mouthed breathing, uncontrollable panting, drooling or foaming at the mouth, gums and tongue turning bluish or gray. Act quickly to reduce body temperature. Submerge the stricken cat in cool water (do not submerge its head) or spray with a gentle stream from a hose. Ice packs may be applied to the head or neck. Prompt veterinary care is needed to prevent brain damage, or in some cases, death.

Frostbite: Very young, old or debilitated cats are the most prone to frostbite, possibly because they are less able to seek shelter when exposed to the extreme cold. The pads of the feet, the tail, and the tips of the ears are the most likely to be affected. The skin becomes pale, then reddens and becomes hot and painful to the touch. Swelling may occur. The hair may fall out and the superficial layers of the skin may peel.

If a cat experiences frostbite, take it to a warm place immediately. Thaw out the frostbitten areas slowly. Do not apply hot applications and do not rub or massage frozen tissues. This may cause further damage or loss of tissue. Warm the affected areas by using warm moist towels that are changed frequently. Discontinue warming as soon as the affected tissues become flushed. Wrap the cat in a blanket to conserve its body heat.

Antiseptic cream or Vaseline may be used to protect the skin once the skin is thawed. A veterinarian should check the extent of the damage as soon as possible. A cat who has suffered frost bite should be protected from further exposure to the cold. Frostbitten tissues are more susceptible to repeated freezing.