Cat owners are well aware of their craving for warmth and their habit of lying on radiators. Hairless breeds of cats that are unable to maintain optimal temperature in cold conditions are especially prone to looking for sources of heat. Meanwhile, such a pastime can be dangerous for a pet, reports journal.tinkoff.ru.
As experts explain, the peculiarity of thermoregulation in cats causes an increase in body temperature during prolonged exposure to heat. And if a cat stays in such a warm place for a long time, it perceives the heat as normal, not noticing the onset of hyperthermia – a rise in body temperature above normal, which is 37.8 °C – 39.5 °C.
Overheating or heatstroke in an animal can be determined by heavy breathing and an open mouth, dry eyes, lethargy and inhibited reactions, as well as a lack of appetite.
Severe overheating can result in convulsions, disturbances in heart rhythm and blood circulation, as well as malfunctions of internal organs and exacerbations of chronic diseases. An increase in body temperature to 42-43 °C can cause loss of consciousness, coma and even death.
Owners whose pets suffer from asthma, heart disease, or are overweight need to be especially careful.
Source: Rosbalt
Mario Twitchell is an accomplished author and journalist, known for his insightful and thought-provoking writing on a wide range of topics including general and opinion. He currently works as a writer at 247 news agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
