Newswise — While warm weather is welcomed by most people, spring and summer can bring certain dangers to pets. A Kansas State University veterinarian says pet owners should be alert to seasonal health issues.
According to Dr. Susan Nelson, veterinarian and clinical assistant professor at K-State's College of Veterinary Medicine, heat exhaustion is a common ailment of pets during summer months.
"It's best to exercise pets during the morning or evening hours to avoid the direct sun," Nelson said. "It's also crucial to have plenty of fresh water available and shade for protection. Cats tend to handle heat better than dogs, but both should be given extra care."
The intense light from the summer sun can damage your pet's skin, including sunburn.
"Pets with lighter-colored coats, especially white or shaved animals, need to be kept out of intense light," Nelson said. "It's best to keep pets in the shade during peak hours and use sunscreen or a protective jacket. Repeated sun exposure often leads to a serious form of cancer in white cats. Owners should be aware of red patchy areas on the ears and nose."
Summer heat can be a danger to pets' food as well.
"Like people, pets naturally eat less during warm weather; however it's important to watch for pet food spoilage in the heat," Nelson said. "Canned food should not be left out after feeding because of the warm weather and the amount of insects it will attract."
Allergies are common in the spring, both for humans and pets.
"Cats and dogs can have seasonal allergies just like us, especially during the spring from pollen and grass," Nelson said. "While some do sneeze and have watery eyes, most pets show allergies through skin rashes and itching, sometimes making the animal miserable. If your pet is being bothered by allergies, you should contact your veterinarian for advice."
Fleas and ticks are health concerns year-round for pet owners, although summer months intensify the problem.
"The best products to treat and prevent ticks and fleas are available from your veterinarian; other topically applied products aren't as effective," Nelson said. "There are numerous diseases that come from fleas and ticks that harm cats, dogs and people, so prevention is very important. Pet owners should also be aware of mosquito, chigger and fly bites which can be irritating and are especially common on outdoor animals."
Shaving their coats may be beneficial to some pets, Nelson said.
"There are some benefits from shaving your pet's hair," she said. "It prevents mats, which can be a hiding place for maggots, and it can make them more comfortable in the heat. It's easier to locate ticks and fleas if the coat is trimmed and it's more comfortable for the animal. The warm weather also makes it easier to bathe pets as it can be done outdoors without a chance of chilling your pet and less mess in your tub."
Rainy weather sometimes leads to standing water, which puts pets at more risk to contract the dangerous disease leptospirosis. Nelson said pet owners should be cautious of their pet's environment, including standing water in the animal's area.
Many pet owners travel during the summer and are faced with deciding what to do with pets. Nelson suggests making summer travel enjoyable for owners and pets alike.
"There is the option of boarding your cat or dog. Be sure that your pet is updated on all vaccines and make reservations well ahead of the day. If leaving a pet with family or friends, be sure they know the pet's routine, have the phone number for your vet available and give them signed consent form so your vet can do what's needed in case of an emergency.
"If your pet is traveling with you, have a health certificate. Try taking short trips and try tranquilizing medication before long trips. It's also helpful to bring comforting items from home as well as food and any medications. Always make sure your pet has some type of identification such as tags, tattoos or a micro chip."
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