Emergency Guides

Access step-by-step guides for common pet emergencies. Know exactly what to do when every second counts.

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CRITICAL URGENCY

Heatstroke (Small Animals)

Guinea pigs, hamsters, and rabbits are extremely heat-sensitive

Signs & Symptoms
  • Rapid, labored breathing
  • Drooling or wet around mouth
  • Lethargy or unresponsiveness
  • Lying flat and unmoving
  • Red or pale ears
  • Convulsions in severe cases
What To Do
  1. 1Move to cool area immediately
  2. 2Apply cool (not cold) damp cloth to body
  3. 3Offer cool water if conscious
  4. 4Use fan on low setting
  5. 5Go to vet immediately
What NOT To Do
  • Don't use ice or ice-cold water
  • Don't leave in hot car or direct sunlight
  • Don't delay — small animals can die from heatstroke very quickly
  • Don't submerge in water
Seek Veterinary Care When
  • Any suspected heatstroke — go immediately
  • Animal is unresponsive or having seizures
  • Symptoms don't improve within 5 minutes of cooling

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