What is hypothermia? Hypothermia occurs when body temperature falls below normal. A normal temperature for a dog or cat is 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. If it’s not treated quickly, it can cause their body to shut down.

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Your dog is at risk of hypothermia if:

They’re out in the cold for too long without any protection or shelter from the weather.

Prolonged swimming in cold temps can lead to hypothermia. 

Newborn puppies and kittens cannot regulate their body temperature; therefore, they can develop hypothermia even when the environmental temperature is almost normal. Elderly and sick pets are more susceptible to cold conditions as well.

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Symptoms of hypothermia: shivering, muscular stiffness, cramps, slow breathing, slow movement, clumsiness, lethargy, drowsiness.

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Prevention: The best way to prevent hypothermia is to not expose your pet to freezing temperatures for an extended amount of time. For sick, elderly, and newborn dogs and cats, keep them warm and away from drafts.

In the event that hypothermia is not treated quickly and adequately, the dog's clinical picture can deteriorate rapidly.

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Hypothermia is an emergency and you should phone your vet right away.

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