Do Cats and Dogs Sweat to Cool Down?

By Mar's Mission Editorial Team, with assistance from AI tools

When temperatures rise, many companion animal guardians wonder how their cats and dogs stay cool. Unlike humans, who sweat to regulate heat, cats and dogs have different ways to manage hot weather. Understanding these differences is important for animal lovers and guardians who want to protect companion animals.

How Do Dogs Cool Down?

Dogs do sweat, but not in the same way humans do. Their sweat glands are mostly located on their paw pads, which produce only a small amount of moisture. This limited sweating is not enough to cool their entire body effectively.

Instead, dogs rely heavily on panting to lower their body temperature.

Panting allows dogs to evaporate moisture from their tongues, mouths, and upper respiratory tracts. This process helps release heat quickly. You might notice your dog breathing rapidly with their tongue out on a hot day. That’s their main cooling mechanism.

Dogs also use behavioral strategies to stay cool, such as:

• Seeking shade or cool surfaces like tile floors

• Drinking plenty of water

• Reducing physical activity during peak heat hours

In addition, did you know that companion animals may also adapt to the heat by shedding some of their winter hair coat, according to Texas A&M Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

"Losing body hair as the weather heats up is a natural occurrence and another way that mammals prepare themselves for the hot summer."

How Do Cats Manage Heat?

Cats' sweat glands are located mainly on their paw pads, similar to dogs, but these glands produce minimal sweat. Cats rarely pant unless they are extremely stressed or overheated.

Instead, cats use other methods to cool down:

• Grooming themselves to spread saliva on their fur, which evaporates and cools the skin

• Finding cool, shaded spots or lying on cool surfaces

• Reducing movement during the hottest parts of the day

"Help your cat stay cool with a summer grooming routine to shed excess hair and keep them comfortable in the heat," says VCA Animal Hospitals.

Why Understanding Companion Animal Cooling Matters

Heat stroke, or elevated body temperature, is an immediate medical emergency. A heatstroke can be deadly if not treated quickly.

"Dogs suffering from heat stroke can have elevated breathing rates, dry or sticky gums, abnormal gum color, bruising in the gums, lethargy, disorientation, and seizures, says VCA Animal Hospitals.

Call a veterinarian immediately if you suspect an animal has heat stroke.

"Safe, controlled reduction of body temperature is a priority. Cool water (not cold) may be poured over the head, stomach, armpits and feet. Do not cover the dog with wet cloths, as this can prevent evaporative or radiative cooling. You can, however, mist cool water over the dog and place them in the path of a fan or air conditioning to promote cooling. Ice packs and rubbing alcohol are no longer recommended as a method to promote temperature reduction," says VCA Animal Hospitals.

Some practical tips to keep companion animals safe include:

• Never leaving companion animals in parked cars, even for a few minutes

• Provide ample shade and fresh water

• Avoid vigorous exercise during midday heat (and remember to check if the pavement is safe by pressing your palm against it for a few seconds. If it's too hot for your, it's too hot for them.)

• Watch for signs of overheating, such as heavy panting, lethargy, or vomiting

"When you’re out in the sun, keep a close eye on your pet for signs of excessive panting or excessive drooling to know when to quit the heat and head for the shade," underscores VCA Animal Hospitals.

Protecting Companion Animals in Hot Weather Starts with Knowledge

Cats and dogs do not sweat like humans. Dogs mainly cool down by panting, while cats rely on grooming and seeking cool places. Both need careful attention during hot weather to avoid heat stress.

Mar’s Mission does not provide veterinary care or services. The information we share comes from reputable and trusted sources to help support the care of companion animals. For urgent or professional medical needs, please contact a licensed veterinarian immediately.