You keep your dog or cat cool during a heatwave by providing a cool, shady spot, fresh drinking water at all times, and air circulation in the house. Only walk them during the cooler hours of the day, never leave your animal in a hot car or enclosed space, and watch for signs of overheating. A fan can help, but is only a supplement.
Direct answer: provide your dog or cat with a cool place with shade, fresh water, and a gentle airflow, only go outside during the cooler hours, and call the vet immediately if you notice signs of overheating.
Why dogs and cats suffer more quickly from heat
Dogs and cats are less able to dissipate heat than we are. Humans sweat over their entire body; dogs pant and release heat mainly through their tongues and paws. Therefore, a fan is less effective for them than it is for us. Especially flat-faced breeds, older animals, animals that are overweight, and animals with a thick coat can struggle quickly. You can find reliable information about animals and hot weather on the Dierenbescherming website.
Practical tips to keep your pet cool
Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day and open windows on the shady side. Provide multiple bowls of fresh water in different locations. A cool tiled floor or a damp towel to lie on works pleasantly for many animals. Walk early in the morning or late in the evening and test the surface with the back of your hand: if the pavement is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog's paws. Furthermore, never leave your pet in a car, even for a short time and even with a window cracked open.
Does a fan help your dog or cat?
A fan moves air, but does not make it cooler. For animals, the effect is limited because they sweat less than humans. Still, a gentle airflow can make it more comfortable, especially in combination with a cool spot and water. Position the fan so that your pet can walk in front of or away from it of its own accord and does not get stuck in a corner. Do not direct the airflow permanently at the animal and keep cables and the device out of reach of teeth and claws. You can read more about the actual effect in can a fan make a room cooler?
| Measure | Effect | Pay attention to |
|---|---|---|
| Shade and closed blinds | Keeps the house cooler | Closed during the day, ventilate in the evening |
| Fresh water | Prevents dehydration | Multiple bowls, refresh regularly |
| Fan | Gentle airflow | Do not keep directed straight at the animal |
| Cool surface | Releases heat | Tiled floor or damp towel |
Signs of overheating and what to do
Heavy panting, excessive drooling, weak or unsteady walking, vomiting, very red or pale gums, and lethargy can indicate heatstroke. This is an emergency situation. Move your animal to a cool place, provide small amounts of lukewarm water, and call your veterinarian immediately. Do not cool abruptly with ice-cold water; ask the vet for advice. What a fan is not: a treatment or a substitute for veterinary help. More general tips for a cool home can be found in how to keep your house cool without AC? and in how to keep your bedroom cool during a heatwave?
Highlighted: the Dynter AirFlow TV26G tower fan
The AirFlow TV26G is a tower fan 115 cm high that takes up little floor space. The product page states that the Sleep mode is intended for the night, with quieter operation and automatic intervals.
Power: 100W
Speeds and modes: three speeds and three ventilation modes: Normal, ECO, and Sleep
Oscillation and timer: air distribution over a wide angle and timer function up to 7.5 hours
Control: remote control and control panel, LED display that turns off after 30 seconds
Because of its height and slim design, the fan fits well in a room where your pet can lie down quietly. View the AirFlow TV26G tower fan, the AirFlow AV25G, or the collection of ACs and fans.
Frequently asked questions
Can I leave a fan on for my dog?
Yes, if you place it safely and your dog can walk away from it by itself. Turn it off if you are away for a longer period, unless your room is safe.
What temperature is too hot for a dog?
That differs per animal and breed. Pay close attention to behavior and signs of overheating, and ask your veterinarian if in doubt.
Should I wet my cat to cool it down?
That is usually not necessary and many cats find it stressful. A cool spot and fresh water are more important.
May my pet lie in front of the fan?
Yes, a gentle airflow is usually fine. Let the animal choose for itself where it wants to lie.
What do I do in case of suspected heatstroke?
Move your animal to a cool place and call the veterinarian immediately. Do not wait.