Although cats are well-adapted to warmer temperatures, many factors can cause your cat to become overheated. Keeping your cat cool in the summer months is critical to keeping your cat out of danger. Especially if your cat has health problems, you will want to learn the signs of overheating and how to keep your cat safe.
What Are Common Signs That Your Cat Is Too Hot?
- Weakness, lethargy, or inability to stand
- Rapid breathing or excessive panting
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Bright pink ears and hot pads on paws
How Can You Keep Your Cat Cool in Summer?
- Provide a safe place to cool down
- Provide several hydration sources
- Keep your cat's fur groomed
- Have light play sessions
- Avoid car trips
Keep Your Cat Out of Danger of Overheating
Tip 1: Provide a Safe Place to Cool Down
Limit Outdoor Activity
Whenever possible, keep your cat indoors during the hottest times of the day.
Provide Cool Places to Rest
In addition to running air conditioning, provide access to cooler areas of your home.
A combination of the following methods can quickly cool down your cat:
- Use an elevated bed
- Provide access to bathrooms, basements, or rooms with tile floors
- Wrap a frozen water bottle in a towel and place it by its resting area
- Use a fan to move warm air away from your cat's body
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RYOBI ONE+ 18v Hybrid Portable Fan
This portable fan runs off an RYOBI 18V ONE+ battery or electric power with an extension cord. It is adjustable so that air can be aimed in multiple directions. We bring this fan along with us on RV trips.
Tip 2: Provide Several Hydration Sources
Water Bowls
Water bowls need to be cleaned daily. Some cats like to drop toys or food in their water bowls. Therefore, it is important to rinse and refill them as needed throughout the day. Especially if your cat has a habit of playing in its bowl, you should provide more than one water source.
For outdoor cats, keep water bowls in a shaded area. This will help minimize the risk that the water will evaporate and keep your cat safe from touching a hot bowl.
Fresh Flowing Water
Pet water fountains are attractive to cats that enjoy fresh, flowing water.
Drinkwell Outdoor Plastic Dog & Cat Fountain, 450-oz
Although this outdoor pet fountain is a popular choice for medium to large breed dogs, it works well for outdoor cats, too. It holds 3.5 gallons of water. It is made of BPA-free and UV-resistant plastic.
Wet Food
Offering your cat canned wet food is an easy way to boost their hydration. If your cat tolerates extra water in its food, you can make a slurry. Leftover food should be placed in the fridge as soon as your cat is done eating.
Ice Cubes
You can add an ice cube to the water to keep it cold and entertaining.
Tip 3: Keep Your Cat's Fur Groomed
Coat Management for Cats
You can expect that your cat will shed more fur in warmer months. Regular brushing and coat management will keep your cat tangle and mat-free.
Four Paws Magic Coat Professional Series Instant Mat & Tangle Remover
Regular use of this grooming tool helps prevent mats and tangles. If your cat is sensitive to the pulling sensation of brushing long or matted fur, this grooming tool does the job with minimal stress.
Tip 4: Light Play Sessions
Even indoor cats can get too hot when playing vigorously. Limit play sessions to times of the day when the temperature is lower. Minimize running and jumping by encouraging your cat to play in place.
Tip 5: Avoid Car Trips
Whenever possible, schedule appointments or move to a new home early in the day. Talk to your vet in advance to see if an anxiety medication may help minimize the risk of overheating and stress.
In the summer months, pack an emergency kit for your cat. In addition to plenty of drinking water, bring a frozen water bottle and a terry cloth. Gently rubbing a wet cloth over your cat will help provide quick relief from the heat.
How Do You Keep Your Cat from Overheating?
What tips do you have for keeping your cat cool during summer months? Have you ever seen your cat get too hot?
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