How Hot Is Too Hot for Dogs and Cats? Protect Your Pet in Summer Heat

One of the biggest risks during warm weather is not the air temperature, but the ground beneath your pet. Surfaces exposed to direct sunlight absorb heat rapidly and can become dangerously hot within minutes.

Emma’s testing shows clear differences between common surfaces:

• Pavements


• Garden paths


• Artificial grass


• Decking


• Natural grass


• Shaded vs sun-exposed areas

Pavements and artificial grass tend to reach the highest temperatures, while shaded natural grass remains one of the safest options.

Pets rely on their paw pads for protection, but they are far more sensitive than many owners realise. Burns can occur quickly, often without immediate visible signs, making prevention critical.

This is particularly important for dogs fed a natural or raw diet, as active, healthy pets often have higher energy levels and may push themselves further in heat.

After walks, support recovery with Chicken & Beef with plenty of water, A natural way to replenish hydration and electrolytes.

Heatstroke in dogs and cats can develop quickly and should always be treated as an emergency.

Key warning signs include:

• Excessive panting


• Drooling


• Lethargy or weakness


• Red gums


• Vomiting


• Wobbling or unsteady movement


• Refusal to walk


• Seeking cold surfaces

If you notice any of these symptoms, act immediately. Move your pet to a cool area, provide access to water, and contact your vet as soon as possible.

Proper hydration and nutrition also play a role in heat resilience. Feeding moisture-rich natural foods can support hydration levels, especially during warmer months, making diet an important part of summer care.

Explore our Bone Broth Range, Formulated to naturally support hydration and summer health.

Keeping your pet cool does not require complicated solutions. Small, consistent actions can make a significant difference to their comfort and safety.

One of the most effective and accessible methods is placing a damp towel on the floor. Many pets will naturally lie on it to reduce body temperature after being outside.

Additional simple tips include:

• Always provide fresh, clean water


• Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening


• Keep pets indoors during peak heat hours


• Use shaded areas in the garden


• Never leave pets in cars


• Allow access to cool tiled floors inside the home

The “5-second rule” is a reliable guide. Place the back of your hand on the ground for five seconds. If it feels too hot, it is unsafe for your pet.

For an added cooling boost, try our Fish Range, Perfect for keeping pets refreshed during hot days.

During extreme heat, the safest place for many pets is indoors, where temperature can be more easily controlled. Cooling support products and hydration-focused nutrition can further improve comfort and wellbeing.