NACA Animal Control Officers Practice Test

Which of the following is a sign of Hyperthermia?

1. Dry skin and coat

2. Excessive drooling and weakness

3. Sunken eyes and loss of appetite

4. Persistent barking and playfulness

The correct answer is: Excessive drooling and weakness

Excessive drooling and weakness are clear indicators of hyperthermia, a condition that occurs when an animal's body temperature rises to dangerously high levels. When an animal experiences hyperthermia, the body's mechanisms for cooling down—like panting—can become overwhelmed, leading to excessive drooling as the body tries to release heat through moisture. Weakness is also a common symptom, as the animal may become fatigued due to the stress of the elevated temperature and the effort to regulate it. Recognizing these signs is crucial for timely intervention and treatment to prevent serious complications, such as heatstroke. The other choices present symptoms that are not typically associated with hyperthermia. For example, dry skin and coat indicate dehydration rather than an overheating issue, while sunken eyes and loss of appetite could suggest other health problems. Persistent barking and playfulness are generally signs of a healthy, active animal and do not correspond to a state of hyperthermia. Understanding these signs helps in ensuring the well-being of animals, especially in situations where heat stress is a risk.