24/06/2023
It looks like another hot and sunny weekend is on the way, so we thought we'd talk about ice again! You might have read some conflicting things about giving your pets iced treats in the heat - that it's a great way to cool down, that it's not as good as other ways, or even that it's a dangerous thing to do. So, let's look at the facts.
Firstly - giving your pet ice cubes is not going to kill them. Unless you start force-feeding them, or your pet decides to inhale them instead of swallowing, then the risks from feeding your pet ice-cold treats are very low.
It is true that ice will probably not cool your pet down very much. However, the same is true for humans, and no one is suggesting that we shouldn't enjoy an iced beverage in this weather! Iced drinks are pleasurable for both pets and humans in the heat, and can help pets to feel happier in the heat. It may also increase their fluid intake, which can help them to stay hydrated.
There's a theory circulating on social media that ice triggers a reaction from the hypothalamus that can cause pets to become even hotter, but thankfully this is not true. Your pet's body is smarter than that - it gets information about how hot it is from all over the body, not just in one spot. It's true that the hypothalamus has a role in controlling body temperature, and it is located not far from the roof of your pet's mouth. However, you can rest assured that it's not going to be fooled by an ice cube or some iced water nearby.
Sadly, there probably have been cases where pets have died after eating iced treats. However, it's very unlikely that it was the ice that caused their death. Heat stroke is a real, serious condition that can be quickly fatal, even if pets are offered cool water or ice to drink.
Signs of heat stroke include:
🛑Rapid breathing or panting
🛑Lethargy, weakness and confusion
🛑Excessive drooling
🛑Bright red gums and tongue
🛑Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
If you think your pet may be suffering from heat stroke, then it's important to get them to a vet as quickly as you can. Do offer them a drink of water, and dampen their paws, legs, and belly if you can, but don't delay seeking medical help by spending too long trying to cool them yourself. Proper heat stroke needs intensive medical treatment to give pets a chance to survive, and sadly this is not something that you can do at home.
