As high temperatures continue across Cyprus, pet heat safety has become increasingly important, with veterinarians warning that heatstroke cases among animals rise every summer.
Veterinarian Stefanie Demosthenous shared advice for protecting dogs, cats, rabbits and other small animals during periods of extreme heat, stressing that prevention can be lifesaving.
Walk pets during cooler hours
Demosthenous advised pet owners to walk dogs only during the coolest parts of the day, noting that temperatures in Cyprus can become dangerous even early in the morning.
She highlighted the “pavement rule”, explaining that if a person cannot keep their palm on the pavement for five seconds, the ground is too hot and could burn a dog’s paws.
The veterinarian also noted that there is no universal rule for ideal walking times, as humidity levels and an animal’s breed can also influence risk levels.
Water and shade are essential
Continuous access to fresh, cool water is critical during hot weather, and owners should refresh water frequently. She also advised avoiding metal bowls, which can heat up quickly.
Demosthenous explained that shade from a tree alone may not provide sufficient protection because the sun shifts throughout the day. In many situations, fans or air conditioning may be necessary.
She added that rabbits and small rodents kept in cages should not be placed near windows or areas exposed to direct sunlight due to the risk of a greenhouse effect.
Never leave pets inside vehicles
The veterinarian strongly warned against leaving animals inside cars, even when windows are partially open or air conditioning is running.
Certain breeds face higher risks of heatstroke, particularly short-nosed breeds such as bulldogs and pugs, which can experience severe breathing difficulties even in temperatures that humans may tolerate comfortably.
Heatstroke symptoms can develop quickly
According to the veterinarian, symptoms of heatstroke include:
• Excessive panting
• Weakness or lethargy
• Bright red gums
• Difficulty walking
• Collapse
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
She warned that heatstroke can develop within minutes.
If heatstroke is suspected, owners should immediately move the animal to a cooler environment, use cool – not ice-cold – water, and provide ventilation using a fan or air conditioning.
If the animal is able to drink independently, water should be offered. However, owners should never force water into an animal’s mouth due to the risk of choking or aspiration.
Support for stray animals
Demosthenous also urged the public not to forget stray animals during heatwaves, especially cats, encouraging people to leave clean containers of water outside and provide assistance whenever possible.
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