Summer is here, and the heat is rising, but not everyone, including our loved pets, welcomes the warmer temperatures.  

So how do we keep our pets cool? You might see dogs splashing in rivers, paddling pools, or playing under the hose. These activities can help our canine friends, but how do we keep our cool cats cooler and safe in the heat?

Here at Safer Pet, we have put together a few tips and guidelines to keep your cat cool, safe and relaxed during these warmer days. We have also included a few signs to look out for just in case your cat feels unwell from the heat.

Can Cats Handle Hot Weather?

Cats are sun worshippers. They love to find a sunny patch to sunbathe or relax in front of a warm fire during winter. They can cope quite well on warm days.

However, cats struggle in the scorching heat, just like we do, and too much is not good for them. Keeping them cool is vital to keeping them happy and healthy.

How Do Cats Keep Cool?

They groom themselves by licking their coat and paws. The saliva evaporates and has a cooling action on their bodies. It works similarly to humans sweating.

Grooming also removes the loose hair in their coat, which helps to keep them cooler.

Cats sleep more when the weather is hot, so there is no need to think your cat is a lazy moggie, quite the opposite, he is being sensible. Their instincts tell them that the heat will zap too much energy, so they sleep during the hottest part of the day.

 

Tips to Keep A Cat Cooler

To prevent your cat from feeling uncomfortable in the hot baking weather, here are a few tips to keep your feline friend cool.

Check sheds, greenhouses, cars, and caravans. Anywhere they might have gone looking for a cosy spot. You do not want your cat to get shut in a hot environment. Temperatures in these areas can rise rapidly and can be fatal.

Keep doors and windows open where safe to get a gentle breeze blowing through the room.

Make sure your cat always has access to shade.

Groom your cat regularly. It is a good bonding time and removes dead fur keeping your cat cool.

A damp towel or cooling mat will help if your cat will lie on one.

Providing your cat with plenty of water is essential during hot times. Water keeps them cool and keeps them hydrated.

If your cat is not a drinker, try running a tap. Some cats prefer to drink from natural sources, and a running tap imitates this. To check if your cat likes it natural, a Safer Pet GPS Cat Tracker will help you know where your prowling lion has travelled.

 

What To Do If Your Cat Gets Too Hot

Cats do get hot, with some more susceptible than others. Factors include:

• Age - elderly and young cats are more at risk
• Obesity
• Certain breeds, such as brachycephalic, flat-faced breeds, such as Persians. Also, long-haired breeds
• Respiratory problems

If you think your cat is getting too hot, you need to reduce their body temperature.

Ways to help include moving them to a cool spot. Offer him water to drink, spray his coat, and use a room fan to cool the area. The water needs to be cool. Using cold water can cause other problems.

Remember, if in doubt, call your vet. If your cat is left too hot for too long, he might start to suffer from heatstroke, which can be serious.

 

Signs To Look For If Your Cat Has Heatstroke

If you think your cat is suffering from the heat at any point, then it is best to call your vet for advice. Some symptoms of heatstroke are:

• Panting
• Lethargy
• Glazed eyes
• An increase in heart rate
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of balance
• Wobbly when walking
• Vomiting
• Seizures

If your cat gets to the point of collapsing and has bright red gums and red skin, then it could be serious, and you need to get him to the vet.

 

Final Thoughts

Your cat enjoys the warmer days just like us. However, they can also experience extreme heat discomfort, which can be fatal.

With some planning, it is possible to keep your cool cat cool, relaxed and safe in the heat.