Condition8 connections · 1 source
Hypothermia
Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops below 98F (36.7C). It can result from cold exposure or be a sign of serious illness such as diabetes, heart failure, shock, or severe infection.
Key Facts
- Normal pet body temperature: 98-102.5F
- Below 98F requires urgent veterinary attention
- Causes: environmental cold exposure or metabolic conditions (kidney failure, heart failure, shock)
- Cats and small dogs are especially vulnerable
- Treatment: move to warm environment, warm blankets (dryer-warmed), hot water bottles
- Do not use blankets or heating pads that are too hot; risk of burns
- Excess superficial heat can cause blood vessel dilation and worsen shock
- Hypothermia contributes to shock and organ failure
- Species: dogs and cats
Connections (8)
Related Conditions
DehydrationCondition
Often accompanies hypothermia
Diabetes MellitusCondition
Metabolic cause of hypothermia
DrowningCondition
Drowning victims lose body heat rapidly
DystociaCondition
Newborns are highly susceptible to cold; room should be 85F
Heart DiseaseCondition
Heart failure can cause hypothermia
ShockCondition
Hypothermia is both a cause and sign of shock