🧊 Hypothermia in Pets: 2025 Vet First Aid Guide for Cold Exposure & Low Body Temperature ❄️🐶

By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc 🩺

When body temperature drops too low, pets enter a dangerous state called hypothermia. It can occur from cold weather exposure or as a sign of serious internal illness. Small dogs, cats, or any pet with chronic illness are especially at risk. This 2025 vet guide will help you recognize hypothermia fast and warm your pet safely. 🧣🐾

🌡️ What Is Hypothermia?

Hypothermia is defined as a body temperature below 98°F. The normal range for dogs and cats is:

• ✅ 98°F to 102.5°F

Common Causes:

• ❄️ Cold outdoor exposure
• 💧 Being wet in chilly environments
• 🧬 Internal illness (shock, heart failure, diabetes, sepsis)
• 🧠 Neurological trauma or unconsciousness

⚠️ Hypothermia can cause organ failure and shock—act quickly to reverse it.

🔍 Signs of Hypothermia

• 🥶 Shivering or trembling (may stop as it worsens)
• 🥱 Lethargy or depression
• 📉 Low energy or refusal to eat
• 🧊 Cold ears, paws, or body surface
• 🩺 Rectal temperature below 98°F

🚨 What To Do Immediately

1. 🔥 Move to a Warm Environment

• Bring indoors or to a vehicle with heating
• Eliminate wind or drafts

2. 🧣 Wrap in Warm Blankets

• Pre-warm blankets in a dryer if possible
• Wrap your pet gently to preserve heat

3. 💧 Add Gentle Heat Sources

• Use a hot water bottle (wrapped in towels)
• Use a Snuggle Safe™ disc or warm rice sock
• Keep heat away from direct skin contact

4. 🚗 Get to the Vet

• Hypothermia is often a symptom of a serious underlying problem
• Veterinary attention is required for full recovery

🚫 What NOT to Do

• ❌ Don’t apply direct heat (heating pads, hair dryers)
• ❌ Don’t use hot water—it may burn or worsen shock
• ❌ Don’t force food or water
• ❌ Don’t skip vet care even if your pet warms up

🩺 What to Expect at the Vet

Veterinary treatment may include:

• 🌡️ Warm IV fluids
• 🫁 Oxygen support
• 🔬 Blood tests to identify infection, organ failure, or shock
• 🛏️ Hospitalization with warm air or fluid therapy

📦 Hypothermia First Aid Kit

• 🧣 Blankets and towels
• 🔥 Hot water bottle
• 📱 Thermometer (digital, rectal)
• 📞 Emergency vet contacts

🛡️ Prevention Tips

• 🐾 Use sweaters or jackets for small or thin-coated breeds in winter
• 💧 Dry pets off quickly if wet
• 🏠 Provide heated beds or shelters for outdoor animals
• 🧬 Monitor chronically ill pets for body temperature changes

📲 Need Help Warming Your Pet? Ask A Vet

If your pet is cold, lethargic, or in distress, the Ask A Vet app offers fast, vet-approved guidance:

• 💬 Chat live with a vet 24/7
• 📸 Share temperature readings and symptoms
• 📋 Get safe warming techniques and transport tips

Visit AskAVet.com or download the app. Cold can kill—warm your pet wisely and seek help fast. ❄️🐶🧊