Waggel warns pet owners as heat-related claims surge

Pet insurer Waggel has urged owners to take extra precautions during the UK’s latest heatwave after reporting a sharp rise in claims for heat stroke and dehydration.

The warning comes as temperatures are forecast to reach up to 40°C in some parts of the country this week, with Waggel’s claims data showing heat stroke cases increased by almost 60% in 2025 compared with the same period the previous year.

Meanwhile, dehydration claims rose by 440% year-on-year between 2024 and 2025.

According to the insurer, it has already received 10 serious dehydration claims in the last two months alone, resulting in more than £5,000 in veterinary costs for pet owners.

The data also suggests that cats are particularly vulnerable during periods of extreme heat. Of the 27 dehydration claims submitted in 2025, 13 involved cats and accounting for 48% of cases.

Waggel chief executive Henri Dowling said: “Heat-related illnesses can develop much more quickly than many owners realise.”

Dowling added that insurer’s claims data had revealed a clear increase in heat-related illnesses during the UK’s warmest year on record and warned that cases could rise further as temperatures increase this summer.

Simple precautions

Aimee Warner, vet at Waggel, warned that pets in the UK are often unaccustomed to prolonged periods of extreme heat and can quickly develop serious conditions such as heatstroke and dehydration.

Dogs remain at heightened risk of heat-related illness, particularly older pets, overweight animals and brachycephalic breeds such as French bulldogs, pugs and bulldogs.

She advised owners to ensure pets have access to fresh water and cool spaces, while avoiding daytime exercise for dogs during periods of high temperatures.

Warner also encouraged cat owners to find alternative ways to increase water consumption, including using water fountains or adding water to wet food.

She added: “Heatstroke and dehydration can be fatal and come on quickly so if you do spot any of the warning signs it’s important to speak to your vet immediately.”

Such symptoms include excessive panting, lethargy, vomiting, breathing difficulties or collapse.