How To Tell If Your Pet’s Too Hot
We Kiwis aren’t the only ones who love basking in the summer sun — our pets do too. But when temperatures start to climb, it’s important to help them stay safe and cool. Overheating can happen quickly and can be dangerous, especially for flat-faced breeds, older pets, and those with thick coats. In this guide, we'll show you how to tell if your pet’s too hot, how to prevent heat stress, and tips to keep tails wagging all summer long.
Common Signs Your Pet Is Overheating
Our furry friends can’t tell us in words when they’re getting too hot — but they can show us. Keep an eye out for these signs of overheating:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Lethargy or disorientation
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- In cats, open-mouth panting, which is rare and usually signals distress
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to act quickly and cool your pet down. Heatstroke can escalate fast, so don’t hesitate to contact your vet if your pet appears unwell.
Why Pets Overheat (Especially In NZ)
New Zealand summers can sneak up on us — and our pets. Unlike us, dogs and cats don’t sweat through their skin. Instead, they rely mainly on panting to release heat. This makes them especially vulnerable to overheating during hot or humid days, car travel, or even a walk at the wrong time of day.
Some pets are more at risk, such as:
- Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats
- Senior pets or those with health conditions
- Pets with heavy undercoats, as common in breeds like Golden Retrievers or Ragdoll cats
How To Help Your Pet Cool Down Safely
Spot the signs early? Quick action can make all the difference. Here are effective ways to bring down your furry mate's temperature:
- Move them to a shaded or air-conditioned area
- Provide fresh, clean water — if they’re not drinking, try adding a hydrating topper or ice cubes
- Drape a cool, damp towel over their body (avoid ice-cold water as it can cause shock)
- Use a pet water fountain to encourage regular hydration
- Watch them closely and contact your vet if symptoms persist or worsen
You can also offer a cooling mat or set up a fan to help keep their temperature under control throughout the day.
Hot Day Prevention Tips Every Pet Parent Should Know
Prevention is the best remedy. A smart routine and pet-friendly setup can help your furry friend beat the heat:
- Keep walks early in the morning or after sunset
- Skip car rides unless absolutely necessary — never leave pets in a parked car
- Offer constant access to fresh water with smart feeders or fountains
- Brush pets regularly with quality grooming tools to remove excess fur
- Set up shade and ventilation for outdoor pets, or bring them inside during peak heat
For extra protection, explore our summer pet essentials collection, full of cooling gear, travel accessories, and hydration helpers.
Cool Comforts For Cats And Canines
Keeping your pets cool doesn't stop at water and shade — it’s also about their environment. Browse our range of cool, breathable dog beds and cooling cat bedding to make your pet's rest spot a chill zone. And for playful pups and curious cats, indoor pet toys can provide stimulation without the sunburn.
Got a backyard explorer? Ensure they have constant access to a shaded area and a reliable source of clean water — like an automatic dog water fountain or a cat water fountain.
Final Thoughts: Beating The Heat Together
At Petdirect, We Get Pet. We know that summer fun should never come at the cost of your pet’s health. Recognising when your furry friend is too hot — and knowing how to act fast — can make all the difference during those scorching Kiwi days. From smart hydration to cooling pet bedding, we’ve got everything you need to help keep things comfortable.
Ready to shop smart for summer? Explore our summer essentials collection and earn rewards through our Pet Perks loyalty — because keeping your pet cool should come with cool benefits too!